Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has opened up about the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level of football. In a recent interview, the Spaniard admitted that he feels like a "wreck" and that "everything hurts."
Guardiola's Honesty
Guardiola's candidness has surprised many, as he is typically known for his unwavering focus and intensity. However, he revealed that the pressure of managing a top club 24/7 takes a significant toll. He explained that when things go wrong, the nights become more difficult, and the day-to-day grind becomes even harder.
Future Plans
Guardiola also reiterated his plans to take a break from management after his time at Manchester City. While he doesn't have a specific timeline, he is certain that he needs to step away to focus on himself and his well-being. "I know that after this stage with City I'm going to stop, this is for sure, it's decided, more than decided," Guardiola stated. "The time that I'm going to stop, I don't know, a year, two years, three years, five, ten, fifteen, I don't know. But I am going to leave it after this stage with City, because I need to stop and focus on me, on my body."
No Barcelona Return
In a separate interview, Guardiola also dashed the hopes of Barcelona fans who dreamed of his return. He stated definitively that his time at Barcelona is over and that he will not return as either a manager or president. "It's over. It's over forever. It was very beautiful, but it's over," he said.
A Legendary Career
Guardiola has enjoyed a highly successful career, winning 39 collective titles with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. He is now just 10 trophies away from matching Sir Alex Ferguson's record of 49 titles, making him one of the greatest managers of all time.
As Guardiola approaches the end of his Manchester City tenure, the football world eagerly awaits his next chapter, whether it involves a break from the game or a new challenge.