Guardiola storms down tunnel after appearing to be irked by Manchester City star linked with transfer during win vs Manchester United
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City began their season on a high, defeating Manchester United 7-6 on penalties on Saturday (August 10) to win the Community Shield. However, their performance, particularly in the first half, was uncharacteristic, leaving Guardiola visibly frustrated.
At half-time, the manager was seen throwing his water bottle in agitation before heading into the Wembley tunnel. He was observed arguing with the goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisido as they went into the dressing room.
On closer look, it was clear that Guardiola was upset with City goalkeeper Ederson, who had given away possession cheaply several times in the first half. Towards the end of the half, the Brazilian’s clipped pass intended for Josko Gvardiol failed to reach the defender, resulting in a United throw-in, which further frustrated the manager.
However, the reigning four-time Premier League champions secured the win, with Bernardo Silva scoring a late equaliser after Alejandro Garnacho had put United ahead. Ederson redeemed himself by saving Jadon Sancho’s penalty and scoring one himself, helping City clinch the trophy.
After the game, Guardiola was seen embracing Ederson, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. However, with no Saudi clubs meeting Manchester City’s valuation, the City boss has said that the goalkeeper will remain at the club.
“It’s a huge relief that Ederson and (Stefan) Ortega are staying. We couldn’t have gone through this unbelievable eight-year process without Ederson.
"Impossible. His charisma. His consistency. To replace the goalkeeper is tricky in the way that we play, so I’m really pleased he stays," Guardiola said (via SkySports)
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola provides update on his future
Pep Guardiola has enjoyed eight trophy-filled seasons at Manchester City as he enters the final year of his deal, with speculation ripe about his future.
He has broken several records and won every competition he has entered with the club, leading to questions about what could motivate him to stay on at the Etihad. Regarding his future, Guardiola has said that he hasn't yet made a decision on his future yet but is looking forward to the new season with 'excitement'.
“I have to decide what I want to do with my life. If I want to continue here, I want to take a break, I want to be training national teams or not, so many things.
"When you arrive to the competition then my energy can rise again, so I’m fully I would say excited for the season because I see things that I like and then we’ll see. It’s a new challenge. We break the record last season (of winning four consecutive Premier League titles), and now we’ll see what is the ambition of ourselves," he said.
Despite speculation about his future, Manchester City will look to win a fifth straight Premier League title and create more history. They begin their campaign at Chelsea on August 18.