As they gear up for the Community Shield clash against Manchester United on Saturday, manager Pep Guardiola has emphasized the team’s ambition to continue breaking records.
The Community Shield, while not carrying the weight of a major trophy, presents an opportunity for City to lay down a marker for the upcoming season.
Guardiola acknowledged the importance of the match, saying, “It is important, it is a final against United, a part of that is trying to refine ourselves. It is step-by-step. (It is important to see) how young players behave on the biggest stage. We will go for it.”
Guardiola’s own future has been the subject of speculation, with the England national team job vacant after Gareth Southgate‘s departure. While acknowledging the possibility of exploring other options when his contract expires next year, Guardiola reaffirmed his current focus on Manchester City.
“I have to decide what I want to do in my life — (whether to) continue here (at City), take a break, a national team, anything. Of course, right now, I am here. My energy rises again, I’m fully excited for the season. We will see, it’s a new challenge to break our own records, we will see the ambition in ourselves,” the Spaniard added.
Guardiola confirmed an agreement with Atletico Madrid for the transfer of Argentine forward Julian Alvarez. While not disclosing the fee, he expressed understanding for Alvarez’s desire for a new challenge and more playing time.
“I know he wanted a new challenge. He felt or feels that is what he has to do. I understand in certain moments, important moments, maybe he thought he was going to play. I respect that a lot. The decisions of the players, I said many times I am a part of the club, but the club has the final decision,” the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager stated.
The upcoming season promises to be another exciting chapter in Manchester City’s recent dominance. With Guardiola at the helm and a squad brimming with talent, the Citizens are well-positioned to continue their pursuit of silverware and further cement their place in football history.
The Community Shield clash against their rivals Manchester United will provide an early indication of their form and resolve as they embark on another demanding campaign.
