Pep Guardiola (54), head coach of Manchester City (Man City), defended the criticism from Jürgen Klopp (58), Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull, regarding the FIFA Club World Cup, but stated that he would not consider the potential impact of a short break.
Former Liverpool manager Klopp recently mentioned player protection and development, labeling the Club World Cup as "a completely unnecessary tournament" and "the worst idea in the history of soccer," drawing attention.
On the 30th (Korea time), Pep Guardiola noted in an interview with global outlet The Athletic, "I really fought a lot with Klopp in England, at UEFA meetings. I know well where his thoughts came from," and added, "We often discussed the Premier League schedule, guarantees for rest, and how to enhance the quality of matches."
Guardiola continued, "His remarks about the Club World Cup were therefore not surprising at all," adding, "I understand and respect him. We have been long-time rivals, but we maintained a good relationship. Now he has stepped down from the position of field commander, and I can support his claims as well."
However, Guardiola emphasized, "We are coaches who must follow the rules of FIFA, UEFA, the Premier League, and Serie A," stating, "It is not us who organize the tournaments. We must carry ourselves with pride under the given circumstances."
Guardiola expressed optimism about the newly expanded Club World Cup. However, he also expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on the team in the long term.
Guardiola stated, "I try not to think about it. I become too anxious if I do," and emphasized, "Instead, I’m just enjoying this time, savoring the good atmosphere and competition we have, and focusing on aiming for victory."
He also mentioned, "After the tournament, we will take the rest allowed by the Premier League and then see what happens," adding, "In November, December, or January, it could really turn into a disaster. We might feel that the Club World Cup has ruined us. Nobody knows. It's a first for all of us."
Finally, he added, "In the past, players have participated in tournaments like the World Cup or Euro. Such things have often happened. Sometimes a mental break is needed, too. We’ll see how we can recover when we go back."
Meanwhile, Manchester City will face Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) in the Round of 16 for a spot in the quarter-finals at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on July 1. If Manchester City beats Al Hilal, they will meet the winner of the match between Inter Milan (Italy) and Fluminense (Brazil).
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