Pep Guardiola addressed the visible injuries on his face and head following Manchester City’s dramatic Champions League clash against Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night. The City manager was seen with a cut on his nose and several red marks on his head during and after the match, prompting questions about their origin.
Explaining the injuries after the game, Guardiola revealed, “Yes, it’s my finger here. With my nail.” His lighthearted remark came amidst a highly tense evening where City drew 3-3, throwing away a comfortable 3-0 lead in the second half.
The chaotic match extended City’s dismal run of form, marking six games without a win, including five consecutive defeats in all competitions – a streak not seen since 2006. This downturn represents the worst period of Guardiola’s decorated managerial career, having never previously lost more than three games in a row during his time at Manchester City, Bayern Munich, or Barcelona.
Tuesday’s result leaves City facing mounting pressure as they prepare for an even tougher challenge. The reigning Premier League champions are set to visit league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, where they will hope to end their slump against a high-flying opponent.
Guardiola admitted his team’s fragility after the draw, where goals from Erling Haaland (two) and Ilkay Gundogan seemed enough to secure victory before Feyenoord’s late resurgence.
The Dutch side capitalized on defensive errors, particularly from Josko Gvardiol, and scored through Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez, and David Hancko.
The 5,000 Feyenoord fans in attendance erupted with joy, while some City supporters voiced their frustrations with boos at full-time.
Guardiola, however, was understanding of the fans’ reaction. “Last game against Tottenham, 0-4, they were there, the supporters with applause,” he said. “They are disappointed; of course, we understand it.
People come here not to remember the success of the past. They come here today to see the team win and perform well, and we have to do so. They support us all the time, and they are completely right to express what they feel, absolutely.”
The manager also defended Gvardiol despite his mistakes, highlighting the Croatian defender’s youth and potential. “He is so young, he will learn.
It will be a good experience,” Guardiola said. “The way he has played – he was the best player on the pitch. I will be so wrong if I point specific things for our defeat. He is a fantastic player, fantastic boy, and now more than ever must be helped.”
