Pep Guardiola tells Spanish media about Manchester City ‘reset’ — and the manager admits last season’s struggles have shaped a new mindset at the Etihad. Speaking to DAZN España after City’s 2–0 Champions League win over Villarreal, Guardiola reflected on a period he described as “a lot of problems” but also a moment of rebirth.
After finishing third in the Premier League, losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace and crashing out early in Europe, City endured one of their most turbulent campaigns under Guardiola. Even their Club World Cup trip ended prematurely, with Al-Hilal sending them home in the round of 16.
The Spaniard now insists that tournament proved to be the unlikely turning point. It forced City to pause, heal and rediscover their identity — something he believes is visible in their form this autumn.
Guardiola: “We had a lot of injuries, a lot of problems”
“We generated something good at the Club World Cup. It’s like we reset last season: we had a lot of injuries, a lot of problems, we lacked energy, everything. There, although we were eliminated very early, I think we created something that I really liked. What we saw in training; the young players adapted very well.” — Pep Guardiola, via DAZN España
Guardiola’s comments underline how internal cohesion, not silverware, sometimes triggers a revival. He pointed to the attitude of younger squad members during that disappointing tournament as key to City’s current resurgence.
Manchester City’s revival in numbers
City opened the current season with two league defeats from their first three matches, prompting fears of another hangover. Since then, they’ve gone nine games unbeaten in all competitions — seven wins, two draws — restoring their trademark rhythm in possession and control of matches.
| Stat (2025/26) | Manchester City |
|---|---|
| Matches Played (all comps) | 12 |
| Wins | 8 |
| Draws | 2 |
| Losses | 2 |
| Goals Scored | 27 |
source: sofascore match data – 22 October 2025
Those figures show a side rediscovering both balance and confidence. City’s defence has tightened, while the midfield rotation looks sharper — a hallmark of Guardiola’s best teams.
Our View
In our view, this “reset” is Guardiola’s most intriguing project since his early City years. The Spaniard has built dynasties by reinventing ideas before they stale — and this version looks like another evolution. Integrating academy players, rotating key veterans, and re-establishing intensity are all parts of that process.
Emotionally, the Club World Cup failure may have reignited hunger. Guardiola often says adversity strengthens collective identity, and right now, his squad appears united by that principle.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Guardiola’s remarks reveal his long-game thinking. “I think Pep’s learned that stability can’t be forced — it has to be rebuilt,” he said. “City’s slow start probably helped him reframe things. They look calmer, leaner and ready to go again.”
In my view, Guardiola’s ability to turn frustration into focus remains his greatest strength. While other clubs dwell on setbacks, he rewires the system — and Manchester City are already showing the rewards of that reset.
Key Insights
- Pep Guardiola confirms Manchester City underwent a full “reset” after a tough 2024/25 season.
- The Club World Cup exit helped rebuild spirit and trust within the squad.
- City are unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions.
- Guardiola highlights the impact of young players in training.
- The manager believes small improvements each game are a sign of recovery.
What’s Next
Manchester City face Aston Villa in the Premier League on 26 October before playing Swansea in the Carabao Cup on 29 October. Continued form in those fixtures could cement their return to title contention before winter.
👉 Can Pep Guardiola’s ‘reset’ spark another Manchester City trophy surge this season?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *