Pep Guardiola gave his take to BBC Match of the Day after Manchester City’s draw with Chelsea, pushing back against the idea that City lost control of the game. He suggested Chelsea’s goal may have shaped that perception.
Guardiola acknowledged that Chelsea increased their intensity and pressed higher after City lost the ball twice early in the second half, which led to a few chances, but he insisted that did not amount to a true shift in dominance. He added that people are free to see it differently and may even have a sharper interpretation than he does.
Guardiola stressed the quality of Chelsea’s squad, pointing out they are elite professionals rather than inexperienced youngsters. He explained that controlling a match for a full 90 minutes against opposition of that level is extremely demanding.
He also admitted City missed several opportunities after the break, citing four or five situations where they had numerical advantages such as two-on-one or three-on-two but failed to make them count. According to him, the team tried to kill the game but lacked the finishing touch.
Summing up, Guardiola said that when all the data is reviewed, what matters most is what you do in the final third. Overall, he felt City’s defensive structure, intensity, and general performance were excellent.
On the six-point gap at the top of the table, Guardiola noted that injured players are returning and that the club will reassess the situation midweek.
Rodri, speaking to Sky Sports about his comeback, said being back on the pitch feels like a gift after a very difficult period.
He explained that right now, results almost feel secondary compared to the joy of playing again, rediscovering his love for the game, and simply feeling happy to be involved.
His main focus, he said, is staying fit and enjoying football, trusting that success will follow.
Rodri added that his body has now adapted physically after the layoff and that he feels strong, although he still needs to regain full sharpness and match rhythm.
Considering the timing of his return and what he has been through, he said he is pleased with where he is physically.
Did you know?
After scoring just once in his first 12 Premier League games this season, Manchester City’s Tijjani Reijnders has since netted four goals in his last seven appearances, including three in his most recent four matches.
