Guardiola guns for Arsene critics
PEP GUARDIOLA has demanded more respect for Premier League managers after recent criticism of Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.
The Manchester City manager made eight changes for the goalless draw at Huddersfield, in which his millionaires failed badly to sparkle.
He did not take kindly to being asked about the wisdom of such a radical overhaul of his team and once again rounded on the media afterwards.
Guardiola said: “I take my decisions and you analyse them after. I have to take the decision before. The best solution
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was what I did. After, if you don’t agree, then you can write about it.
“What I’ve heard in the last 10 days about how the people – former players and journalists – treated Arsene Wenger, for example, is unacceptable.
“What happened was disrespectful. Our job at the moment... we don’t have any respect for any position. We take decisions and you can say whatever you want.” City’s display in a stalemate that attracted a record crowd of 24,129 did not give Monaco much cause for concern ahead of tomorrow’s Champions League last-16 first leg at the Etihad Stadium.
The French aristocrats currently top Ligue 1 – above a Paris SaintGermain side who recently destroyed Barcelona 4-0 in Europe’s premier competition.
Guardiola was a picture of frustration once again on the sidelines as he complained about a number of refereeing decisions. There was also a frank exchange of words during the first half with Sergio Aguero, whose future remains a source of debate.
The Argentina striker was way below par but City midfielder Fernando said: “He’s a great player for us and has great quality, which helps the team a lot.
“Unfortunately he didn’t score but we hope on Tuesday he’s going to be ready to play a great game.”
For Huddersfield, this game was a glimpse of a potential life in the Premier League. The Terriers have not been in the top flight since 1972 but they lie third ahead of tomorrow’s visit of fourth-placed Reading.
On-loan Chelsea forward Izzy Brown said: “We’ve drawn 0-0 against one of the best teams in the Premier League. It shows we are ready to fight against the best opposition.”
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