Pep Guardiola addressed the visible injuries on his face and head following Manchester City’s intense Champions League clash against Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.
The City manager was spotted with a cut on his nose and red marks on his head during and after the match, raising questions about their cause.
After the game, Guardiola lightheartedly explained, “It’s my finger, with my nail,” referring to how the injuries occurred. His remark came on a tense night as City surrendered a 3-0 lead to draw 3-3, continuing their recent poor form.
The chaotic result extended City’s winless streak to six games, including five consecutive losses across all competitions—a slump not seen since 2006.
This represents the most challenging spell of Guardiola’s managerial career, as he has never previously lost more than three games in a row during his tenures at Manchester City, Bayern Munich, or Barcelona.
The draw piles pressure on City ahead of their next match: a daunting visit to league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The reigning Premier League champions will aim to end their slump against a formidable opponent.
Reflecting on the draw, Guardiola acknowledged his team’s vulnerability. Despite goals from Erling Haaland (two) and Ilkay Gundogan, Feyenoord staged a late comeback, capitalizing on defensive lapses, particularly by Josko Gvardiol. Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez, and David Hancko scored for the Dutch side, delighting the 5,000 Feyenoord fans in attendance, while some City supporters responded with boos at full-time.
Guardiola expressed empathy for the fans’ frustration. “In the last game against Tottenham, when it was 0-4, the supporters applauded us,” he said.
“They are disappointed now, and we understand that. Fans come to see us win and perform well. Their support is incredible, and they have every right to express their feelings.”
Despite Gvardiol’s errors, Guardiola defended the young Croatian defender, praising his talent and potential.
“He is so young and will learn from this experience,” Guardiola said. “Tonight, he was the best player on the pitch.
Blaming him would be wrong. He’s a fantastic player and person, and now more than ever, he needs our support.”
