Pep Guardiola praises Manchester City players for staying disciplined over Christmas as they chase Arsenal ahead of a key trip to Nottingham Forest.
Pep Guardiola has praised his Manchester City squad for maintaining strict discipline over the Christmas break. The City manager said his players met the club’s physical standards after returning from a short festive rest. City now turn their attention to a crucial Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest.
Guardiola revealed that players were weighed on their return to training. The checks were designed to ensure fitness levels remained high. City face Forest in the early Saturday kickoff, with the title race finely balanced.
Guardiola admitted he enjoyed the festive period himself. He joked that he gained several kilograms due to food and drink. The same leniency, however, does not apply to his players.
The Spaniard said City’s standards have been clear for a decade. He stressed that professionalism and discipline are non-negotiable. According to Guardiola, the squad once again responded in the right way.
City had been warned in advance about the post-Christmas checks. The squad returned in good condition ahead of the Forest match. Guardiola confirmed they met expectations before the recent 3-0 win over West Ham.
Striker Erling Haaland even shared his own weight reading on social media in a light hearted moment. The Norwegian posted a picture showing 94.4kg, adding the caption “All good!”.
The victory over West Ham left City just two points behind league leaders Arsenal. A win at Forest could temporarily move them top of the table. Arsenal host Brighton later on Saturday.
Guardiola admitted he would prefer to lead with a bigger points cushion. Still, he believes City are well placed across competitions. They remain strong in the league, Europe and domestic cups.
City are currently on a run of seven straight wins in all competitions. That form has kept them firmly in the title race. Guardiola believes consistency will be key during the busy winter schedule.
City are also through to the Carabao Cup semifinals. The FA Cup campaign is about to begin. In the Champions League, Guardiola said the team is in a strong position.
Guardiola provided updates on several key players. John Stones and Jeremy Doku remain sidelined with injury. Both are unavailable for the Forest match.
Midfielder Rodri, however, is making good progress. Guardiola said the Spaniard is “much, much better” after his hamstring issue. He could be assessed ahead of Saturday’s game.
The City manager admitted the January transfer window remains unpredictable. He confirmed the club are in advanced talks to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo. Guardiola said circumstances can change quickly.
He pointed to last season as an example. City were forced into the market due to a long injury list. This time, the situation is more stable, but options remain open.
The West Ham win was another example of City’s control and efficiency. Goals came without City needing to overextend. Guardiola was pleased with the balance between intensity and discipline.
Forest away now presents a different challenge. The City Ground is known for its atmosphere. Guardiola expects a tough contest, especially during the festive period.
City face Nottingham Forest in the early kick-off on Saturday, December 27th. Forest are battling near the bottom but remain a dangerous prospect at home. The match also includes a tribute to former Forest winger John Robertson.
After Forest, City continue their push across multiple fronts. Guardiola’s men will play Sunderland on January 1st, Chelsea on January 4thand Brighton on January 7th in the Premier League before facing Exeter on January 10th in FA Cup. With key players returning and standards maintained, Guardiola believes his side are ready. The title race is tightening, and City intend to stay right in it.
