Three days after Real Madrid’s penalty-filled victory over them in the Champions League ended Manchester City’s hopes of winning the triple crown, manager Pep Guardiola (53) took aim at the FA Cup schedule after his team defeated Chelsea 1-0 to advance to the final.
Although holders City rode their luck against a Chelsea team that was punished for not taking the many opportunities they created, a late goal by Bernardo Silva saw them over the finish line.
In spite of making it to another final, City, who were missing the injured striker Erling Haaland, did not play with the usual vigor, and Guardiola was visibly upset at his team’s lack of recuperation time following the painful Champions League exit on Wednesday.
Guardiola declared, “We cannot be allowed to play today.” For the players’ wellbeing, it is not feasible. It isn’t typical. That is not appropriate. The way we lose, honestly, the feelings of Madrid in 120 minutes.”It’s for the players’ health, I understand that this nation is unique because of the FA Cup. The way we made it through today baffles me.
Guardiola was unable to understand why City’s match against Chelsea was not set for Sunday instead of Manchester United’s semi-final matchup with Coventry City, a lower division team, both of whom had midweek games.
“My voice here is my only authority. How about tomorrow? Let’s play. Midweek games were missed by Coventry, Chelsea, and Manchester United, according to Guardiola.
Mentally it’s very difficult to heal. “Kyle Walker was hurt for a few weeks, and considering Rodri’s performance today, I’m not sure how they made it.”We adore and love playing football, and we want to play it, but it’s too much. We protect our winnings. We shall be present.
City’s dreams of a second consecutive treble were dashed by their loss to Real, but they are still vying for the Premier League/FA Cup double.
Silva, who accepted responsibility for his missed penalty kick in the penalty shootout, said, “We’re happy with another final and another chance to win a trophy.”
“We’ve repeated it numerous times over the years. This team always responds to setbacks and losses in the best possible way. The team once again displayed great character today.”