Pep Guardiola at loggerheads with Manchester City squad amid four-game losing run: Reports
Pep Guardiola is reportedly encountering tensions with Manchester City's squad amid their shocking run of results as of late. The reigning Premier League champions have been handed four defeats on the bounce across competitions.
The Athletic reports that tensions are growing between the City's locker room and Guardiola. This isn't unusual, but given the four-game losing streak, it's important.
For the first time in his managerial career, Guardiola has suffered as many defeats in a row. His troops have lost to Tottenham Hotspur (2-1 in the League Cup), Bournemouth (2-1 in the league), Sporting CP (4-1 in the UEFA Champions League), and Brighton & Hove Albion (2-1 in the league).
The Spanish tactician has masterminded many incredible title wins during his reign at the Etihad. However, Manchester City's coach's contract expires at the end of the season, which is worrying.
Pep Guardiola insisted he was motivated to turn things around after City's defeat to Brighton (November 9). He told reporters (via Manchester Evening News):
"This is my challenge, our challenge. I like to face it. I will not step back at all, less than ever. More than ever I want to do it and we will try again."
Guardiola arrived at City in July 2016 and has become the club's most successful manager. He's guided the Citizens to 18 major trophies, including six Premier League titles.
"We will see" - Ballon d'Or winner Rodri's on Pep Guardiola's future at Manchester City
Rodri was signed by Pep Guardiola in 2019 and has grown into one of Manchester City's all-time greats. The Spanish midfielder won the Ballon d'Or earlier this month to cap off a sensational year at the Etihad.
The 28-year-old, currently sidelined with an ACL injury, spoke about his manager's future and how he's been told he's leaving several times over the years. He told Spanish outlet COPE (via transfer expert Fabrizio Romano):
"When I signed for Man City, people told me: Pep will leave next year. And he’s been here for 5 years. We will see! He’s ambitious, it’s him deciding his future. But in any case, Man City will still be Man City."
Guardiola has been linked with the Brazil national team job. He has made clear he wants to manage at international level at some stage of his career. The Athletic claims the Brazilian Football Federation has called the City boss several times about the job.