“A disaster game”: Pep Guardiola explains why he picked Stockport over PSG vs Bayern

Pep Guardiola turning down a wild 5-4 thriller between PSG and Bayern Munich for a League One matchup between Stockport County and Port Vale? Not quite, but the Manchester City boss insists he still prefers the charm of English soccer.

Speaking ahead of Monday’s Premier League clash with Everton, the Catalan coach joked about his appearance at Edgeley Park during the Champions League semifinals, while also offering updates on Rodri’s recovery from a groin injury.

“Ruben Dias, Josko (Gvardiol), and Rodri are all improving,” Guardiola said.

Title race pressure and Arsenal’s schedule

With Arsenal set to play Fulham on Saturday and potentially extend their lead at the top of the Premier League, Guardiola brushed off any concerns about scheduling.

“It’s the calendar, it’s normal,” he said. “Sometimes you play first, sometimes after. At this stage of the season, it doesn’t change anything. You know exactly what you have to do.”

He pointed out that Arsenal’s Champions League run is simply part of the equation.

“When we won the treble, we had a similar schedule. I learned a long time ago not to expect anything different. We have to adapt and take it game by game.”

No complaints about fixture congestion

Guardiola also addressed the controversy surrounding PSG’s postponed Ligue 1 games, making it clear he has no interest in complaining.

“It can happen in other countries, but here it is what it is,” he said. “We have to adapt. If you don’t like it, go coach in France or Portugal.”

He added that his stance hasn’t changed since his Barcelona days.

“I’ve always said the same, even when I was in Spain and saw coaches here complaining. It’s always been like this.”

Rodri’s status and time off

City’s lighter schedule has at least offered some breathing room.

“I’d love to be in the Champions League, but you can’t have everything,” Guardiola admitted. “So we enjoy the days off and prepare.”

He revealed he has been scouting upcoming opponents, including Brentford.

“I watched them at Old Trafford and was really impressed. Even though they lost, they played very well. They’ve had an incredible season.”

As for Rodri, the update remains cautious.

“He’s improving. He still hasn’t trained with us, so we’ll see in the next few days. Will he be ready for Everton? I always have confidence.”

Guardiola on John Stones’ future

Guardiola also spoke warmly about John Stones, who is expected to leave Manchester City at the end of the season.

“He was one of my first signings,” Guardiola said. “I remember traveling to London to meet him at my brother’s house. He was so young.”

He praised Stones’ role in the club’s recent success.

“Very few players understand what we’ve achieved together. He was by far the best player in the Champions League final in Istanbul.”

Guardiola emphasized Stones’ character both on and off the field.

“He’s an incredible person. Now that he feels fit again, we hope he can regain his rhythm.”

Everton preview and Moyes admiration

Looking ahead to Everton, Guardiola expects a tough challenge.

“David Moyes has had that passion since he was born,” he said. “It’s impressive that at his age he’s still in such great shape.”

He noted Everton’s strong recent form and European ambitions.

“They’ve had very good results in recent weeks. It’s a new stadium, another final for us. They are always a difficult opponent.”

Guardiola admitted he will miss the old Goodison Park atmosphere.

“It was a great, very British stadium. I loved going there. But I’m excited to see the new one.”

Why Stockport over PSG vs Bayern?

Guardiola’s explanation for choosing Stockport over one of Europe’s biggest games came with heavy sarcasm.

“The day before, I saw PSG vs Bayern and thought, what a disaster game. The managers aren’t good, Luis Enrique and Vincent Kompany, really, really shit players,” he joked.

“I love English soccer, so I went to Stockport. Then I watched PSG-Bayern afterward with a glass of wine, already knowing the result.”

On high-scoring games and defensive debates

Asked about the nine-goal thriller, Guardiola embraced the spectacle.

“That’s football,” he said. “You and I are not the same. Everyone has their own style.”

He pointed to other recent matchups as examples.

“Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal was also a great game. When you score nine goals in a semifinal, of course it’s fantastic.”

Will he watch Arsenal?

Guardiola even left the door open to tuning in to Arsenal’s next match.

“What time do they play? 5:30 p.m.? That’s right after training, so yes, maybe I’ll watch a bit.”

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