Pep Guardiola may not be a fan of long trips and a packed schedule, but Manchester City’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup could turn out to be a blessing in disguise. While Guardiola is determined to win the tournament, there are other benefits to City’s December trip to Saudi Arabia. With a recent slump in the Premier League, spending a week training in the Middle Eastern sun could provide the team with a valuable opportunity to reset and recharge.
City’s match against Urawa Red Diamonds showcased a glimpse of the old swagger that the team is known for. With nearly 80% possession and 13 shots in the first half alone, Guardiola’s men completely dominated the game. The 3-0 victory, thanks to an own goal, Mateo Kovacic, and Bernardo Silva, could have easily been a higher score if City had pushed themselves further. Importantly, it was also their first clean sheet in nine games. While the upcoming final against Fluminense will be a tougher test, there is little for Guardiola to fear.
City’s involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup raises questions about its impact on the Premier League title race. Sitting fourth in the table and five points behind leaders Arsenal before the trip, City could potentially fall further behind their rivals during their absence. However, history has shown that a break from domestic football can be beneficial for a team chasing the title. Manchester United’s participation in the inaugural Club World Cup in 2000 allowed them to regroup and come back refreshed. They went on to win the title by 18 points after an impressive second half of the season.
Despite the competition from Arsenal and Liverpool, it would be unwise to dismiss Manchester City’s chances of winning the Premier League. With five titles in the last six years, City has a proven track record of success. When questioned about their ability to go on a winning run, midfielder Bernardo Silva confidently responded, “Do you doubt us?” City’s players have shown time and time again that they have the resilience and determination to come out on top.
Guardiola recognizes the importance of the team’s togetherness during their time in Saudi Arabia. With a day off and a team dinner, the players have the chance to bond and recharge. Guardiola emphasizes the need for rest and massage to ensure the team is in the best condition for the upcoming matches. When City resumes their league campaign against Everton, they are likely to be in a better shape compared to when they left.
City’s trip to the Club World Cup also allows some players to recover from injuries and regain match fitness. Kevin De Bruyne, who has been sidelined since the opening weekend of the season due to hamstring surgery, returned to training during the trip. While he won’t be able to participate in Saudi Arabia, his imminent comeback is a positive sign for City. Additionally, there is hope that star striker Erling Haaland will be fit to make his return against Everton. The team’s presence in the Club World Cup could set them up for more silverware at the end of the season.
Manchester City’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup presents a unique opportunity for the team. While Guardiola’s main goal is to secure another trophy, the trip to Saudi Arabia offers more than just silverware. It provides a chance for City to reset, regain their confidence, and recharge. The team’s dominance against Urawa Red Diamonds and their history of success in the Premier League should not be underestimated. With players returning from injuries and the potential for more trophies in the future, City’s trip to the Club World Cup could prove to be a stepping stone towards a successful season.