“Maybe it was too much,” admits boss after 10 changes backfire against Leverkusen
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has taken full responsibility for his team’s surprising 2-0 home defeat to Bayer Leverkusen, admitting his decision to make ten changes to the starting line-up backfired.
In a bold move, Guardiola completely reshuffled his team from the one that lost to Newcastle United just days earlier, with only Nico Gonzalez retaining his place. The manager had preemptively explained his strategy to the press, stating his squad needed “fresh legs” after a demanding run of games.
However, the plan unravelled on the pitch. A disjointed City performance was punished by the German side, with goals from Alejandro Grimaldo and Patrik Schick securing a vital victory for the visitors.
Speaking TNT Sports after the final whistle, a reflective Guardiola held his hands up. “I accept that maybe it’s a lot,” referring to the sweeping changes. “Seeing the result, maybe it’s too much.”
The consequence of the loss is significant, marking the first time City have lost back-to-back games since August. It also deals a blow to their Champions League campaign, leaving them with work to do ahead of a crucial trip to Real Madrid next month. For one night, Guardiola’s gamble left his team looking uncharacteristically vulnerable.
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