Manchester City players will have a brief break from football to enjoy the Christmas break, but manager Pep Guardiola has given a firm warning about his players’ physical condition.
They will have three days off, with the team returning to training on December 25th. However, Guardiola has made it clear that any player who does not meet the required weight standards upon his return will not be included in the squad. for the next game against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Guardiola, who is known for his strict approach to diet and fitnesshighlighted the importance of players maintaining their physical shape, even during the holiday period.
“Each player weighs in. They come back on the 25th and I will be there controlling how many kilos will appear, (to see if) they come back fat“, he stated. “The moment they arrive after three days, I want to see how they come back. They can eat, but I want to control them“.
The coach added that he will closely monitor the players’ weight as he needs to make decisions about who will be in the lineup for the game on December 27th. “Imagine a player who is now perfect, but arrives with three extra kilos. He will stay in Manchester. Won’t travel to Nottingham Forest“, warned Guardiola.
Rigorous history
It comes after previous criticism of England midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who was reprimanded for failing to meet his target weight upon returning from the 2022 season.
Guardiola’s commitment to maintaining fitness is well known, but he also recognized the importance of allowing people to relax and recharge.
“Next week, I have a holiday, I will be with the family and with champagne,” Guardiola revealed of his own plans for the break. “I learned from England, since I arrived, how many days you can give off, you can. The schedule is very tight and the players need to forget.”
Guardiola highlighted that it is essential for players to mentally switch off, especially given the demanding schedule. “When the game comes, they will have fresh legs. Players need to go with their families and forget about football. That is good. For them, seeing the coach every day – that’s difficult!”
After the 3-0 victory against West Ham last weekend, they are in second place, two points behind leaders Arsenal, after 17 games.
