The Manchester City manager previews the decisive group stage match against the Bianconeri, which will determine who finishes top. He provides updates on Rodri`s fitness and the team`s overall condition, stating they are not yet at their best but aim to go all the way.
Juventus scoring one more goal than City means the English side must secure a victory in the final group fixture against the Bianconeri. Winning the group is crucial to advance to the knockout stages as group winners and potentially avoid encountering difficult opponents like Real Madrid early on. Pep Guardiola was visibly frustrated with his team after the recent match against Al Ain, but attention has now fully shifted to facing Juventus.
Heat and Squad Update
The Spanish coach, looking tanned during his press conference, began by addressing the challenging weather conditions: “The temperature cannot be changed. It`s best to play as we always have. All teams have to manage it, which suggests measures will be taken for the next World Cup. We must get used to suffering.” He provided positive news on Rodri`s recovery: “Rodri is improving and can play at least a portion of the match, if not the whole game. He`s happy to be increasing his minutes.” Guardiola noted that the tournament hasn`t shown fundamental differences in terms of team strength, stating strong teams remain strong. “It`s humid, but it`s difficult for everyone. We increased the tempo in the second match, but it depends on the conditions,” he added.
Mindset and Past Encounters
Commenting on a video of him playing football on the beach with his players that went viral, Guardiola explained the team`s relaxed approach in the USA: “This year has been emotionally challenging because it wasn`t our best season in terms of results. That`s why we`re trying to create a relaxed atmosphere here in the USA; whoever wants a day off will have one. We shouldn`t waste energy. Many players didn`t have proper rest due to national team duties. Another difficult 11 months await, so I`ve decided to let them do what they want.”
Reflecting on the previous Champions League encounter six months ago where Juventus defeated City, he stated: “Some groups are tougher than others. Let`s see what happens now; the real tournament begins now. Juventus is a big name, but it`s important for us to progress. We are far from our best form, but we hope to improve steadily.” He dismissed the past defeat: “The season is over; a new one has begun, and the loss in the Champions League belongs to the past. We don`t want to relive it. I see many things I like in terms of connection; I`m sure we will do very well from now on.”
Tactics and Team Rotation
Guardiola acknowledged the changes in both squads, mentioning City signed three players in June and Juventus now has a new coach: “Juventus is always strong. They were strong when we met them during our worst period of the season, when we couldn`t win a match, and they are strong now. Tudor has a different approach, much more aggressive, and he gives a different interpretation to the matches.”
Finally, regarding the lineup, Guardiola confirmed changes are expected, similar to the previous two matches: “There will definitely be turnover again this time, both in the starting eleven and in the second half. In these climatic conditions, you cannot play at our pace for 90 minutes. It would be interesting if we could make more than five substitutions.” He also provided an injury update: “We lost Echeverri; he has an ankle problem and will be out for 2-3 weeks, which I`m very sorry about.” On the significance of the trophy, he concluded: “Now that we are here, we want to do well. Maybe it will be forgotten as soon as it`s over, but we are here to go all the way.”
