Pep Guardiola has said Manchester City are in ‘big, big trouble’ with fatigue as the club’s squad struggle to compete on three fronts.
Manchester City remain in contention to defend the treble of trophies won last season and continue their Premier League title challenge at home to Luton this weekend.
Influential midfielder Rodri this week said he ‘needs a rest’ amid a gruelling club campaign, while Kyle Walker and John Stones missed the midweek draw with Real Madrid through injury.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Guardiola admitted his team are feeling the fatigue of competing in all competitions.
“Take a look at our games and you realise. It is simple. He (Rodri) is so important for the quality he gives us. But if you have a player that doesn’t want to play, he won’t play,” Guardiola said.
“I need to rest the centre-halves also but in [England’s] friendly games, [John Stones and Kyle Walker] got injured so they get cannot rest. We are in big, big trouble.
“I had the feeling we were tired in the last games. We will decide tomorrow what we have to do.”
Guardiola also addressed his goalkeeping situation after Stefan Ortega retained his place in midweek, despite the return to fitness of first-choice Ederson.
“No, [Ederson] is the first choice. He was ready to play against Madrid and [will be] tomorrow, and the next game. We make the decision for many reasons.”
