Guardiola attacks in the debate of his supporters: ‘Don’t put words in my mouth’ | Champions League

About 38,000 spectators descended on the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening, which can accommodate a total of about 54,000 spectators. There were empty seats here and there and coach Josep Guardiola called on the fans to come to the stadium in greater numbers after the match against Leipzig.

This statement was made incorrectly in the official Manchester City Supporters’ Association. “Guardiola doesn’t understand how hard it is for some people to get to the stadium on Wednesday night at 8pm,” said Kevin Parker of the Fans’ Union.

“There are people with children, maybe there are fans who can’t afford it, Covid still plays a role, … I don’t really understand why Guardiola would comment on that.”

“Pep is definitely the best coach in the world, but – with all due respect – I think it’s best if his work is limited to coaching.”

“Saturday against Southampton, the stadium will be full again, just like the last two matches on Saturday. Nobody at the club should question the loyalty of the fans. This is very frustrating.”

And Pep Guardiola echoed in his press conference Friday, a day before the league match against Southampton, the statements of Kevin Parker, representative of the City supporters.

The City coach responded angrily: “Don’t put words in my mouth that I didn’t use.” “I don’t like it. I’d never be a problem for the fans. If I were, I’d just step aside. That’s not a problem for me.”

Guardiola said his comments were motivated by the fact that his players were very tired after their European match against RB Leipzig and so could use all the support of the fans in the competition.

“A Champions League match is very demanding mentally and physically, while Southampton have been able to look forward to that game for a whole week. That’s why we have to continue it together. I know our fans will be there, I hope Kevin as Parker will come to watch.”