Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has warned he could leave the club if his request to keep a small squad is ignored. Speaking on Wednesday, Guardiola made it clear he does not want to manage a large team where several players are left out of matchday action.
Guardiola said he is uncomfortable with having too many players, explaining that he doesn’t want to leave five or six of them in the stands during games. According to him, signing players only to sideline them would weigh heavily on his conscience.
“I told the club I don’t want a big squad. I don’t want to put five, six players in the tribune, I don’t want that. I will quit,” said Guardiola. “If they don’t make a short squad, I will not stay. It’s impossible for my soul to put players in the tribune and not play.”
The comments come at a time when Manchester City are under pressure, having endured a disappointing season. Their hopes of ending the campaign with silverware ended last weekend when they lost to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. As a result, City will finish the season without a major trophy.
Despite this setback, they are still in the race for Champions League qualification, with the final Premier League matches set to be played on Sunday. City gave their chances a boost by beating Bournemouth 3-1 on Tuesday.
With 68 points, Manchester City currently sit ahead of Chelsea, Newcastle, and Aston Villa—each with 66 points—and Nottingham Forest, who have 67. A win in their final game against Fulham would guarantee City a third-place finish. Even a draw could be enough thanks to their strong goal difference.
Guardiola’s remarks highlight not only his team selection philosophy but also the tension behind the scenes as City face an uncertain end to the season. His insistence on a lean squad reflects his desire for every player to feel involved and valued—something he believes is not possible with a bloated team.
As the season draws to a close, Manchester City’s leadership will be under pressure to decide whether to meet Guardiola’s demands—or risk losing one of the most successful managers in the club’s history.
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