As night falls, the Premier League rekindles with the 16th round of fixtures at Manchester City's home stadium. 1-2, that's the final result of City's encounter with Manchester United, and Pep Guardiola, the master tactician, faces the camera, reveals his heart, and confronts his team's predicament.
"No need for words, no need for excuses. The toughness of our opponents, their strength, was evident in this game. We have not suffered such a losing streak in two seasons, but today, the result cannot be argued. It's not the mistakes of individual players, it's what's wrong with our whole team." Guardiola's words revealed a deep apology.
"We gave the goal away and it was a mistake on our part. We didn't keep our composure, the game was a poor result, there were not enough highlights. I understand all that, I empathize with it, but that's the reality. As a coach, I have to accept the reality and find a way to crack it." Guardiola's tone had a hint of helplessness in it.
"During the game, we had to be more cautious in the box, which is the base of the base. Although Nunes played at wing-back today, not a position he is familiar with, that is not where the problem lies. We have to play more methodically, we have to find ways to create chances and, at the moment, we are not there yet." Guardiola does not hide his flaws when analyzing the problems.
"Good results inspire us to be at our best, but at this stage, we don't have that. The way I learn my lessons is to keep moving forward, work tirelessly, dig into the root of the problem and find a solution. I'm not perfect, I'm the coach and I have to take responsibility for the team's performance." Guardiola's introspection gives a sense of responsibility and accountability.
"We are hungry to perform better and to create more chances, but at the moment, it all seems out of reach. We have to learn from the defeat, unite and work together to be ready for the next campaign." Guardiola's words point the way for the team's future.
