Guardiola Seeks Opportunity to Revitalize City's Performance

Manchester, December 1 (NationPress) - Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola disclosed that he has approached the club's leadership for a chance to rectify the team's performance, stating that his drive to elevate the Blues back to their typical high standards remains unshaken; otherwise, he wouldn't have chosen to remain.

Guardiola, who recently signed a two-year contract extension with City, is currently facing the most challenging period in his managerial career, with the team suffering five consecutive defeats across all competitions prior to their pivotal matchup against Premier League leaders Liverpool.

"I extended my contract because I feel it. I’m not here solely for my past achievements; it’s because I’m still content and eager to make an effort. However, if I start feeling like a problem, I wouldn’t want to stay," Guardiola stated.

"I’m not here just because I have a contract. My Chairman is aware of this; I asked him to give me a chance to bounce back, especially when everyone is back; let’s see how it unfolds.

"If things don't improve, we will need to make changes. I never ask my hierarchy to keep me on board, but I am requesting the opportunity now more than ever. I believe I still have work to accomplish, and I am committed to doing it," Guardiola was quoted saying on the Manchester City website.

The City manager has clinched 18 trophies since his arrival at the Etihad Stadium in 2016, including six Premier League titles in seven years and the coveted Champions League.

The defending champions are currently positioned fourth in the league and are set to meet leaders Liverpool on Sunday. The Blues’ last victory at Anfield dates back to February 2021, with their previous win before that occurring in 2003.

Guardiola acknowledges that Liverpool will approach the match brimming with confidence; however, he remarked that being labeled as favorites in significant matches has never influenced his mindset or provided his team with a competitive advantage.

"We only secured a win there once during the COVID period when fans were absent," he added.

"Nothing alters my role; certainly, we are not favorites, especially considering our recent performances. But that’s not the core issue.

"When I coached at Barcelona with exceptional players and we were seen as favorites, I never perceived it as an advantage or thought, ‘I’m starting the game at 1-0’ or that we would underperform. We need to execute our game plan, assess our requirements, and see what unfolds," he concluded.