Man City boss Pep Guardiola gives next job update in subtle Gary Neville dig
by Bruna Reis · Manchester Evening NewsPep Guardiola has made it clear he couldn't see himself taking on a punditry role like Gary Neville, ahead of their FA Cup clash this Saturday.
Manchester City will host Salford, part-owned by Neville on Saturday evening (5:45pm kick-off). He is one of Manchester United's Class of 92, who co-own the League Two side.
Guardiola has clashed with Neville on several occasions since taking charge of City in 2016. The Catalan hit back at Neville's criticism they were boring.
He also responded to comments Neville made recently about his treatment of Kevin De Bruyne. As a result, Guardiola believes that commenting on the difficulties his peers face isn't his style.
"I don't think I'm going to do that, I am cautious," Guardiola said. "I couldn't make a comment that could hurt my colleagues. I know how difficult this job is, how difficult it is, and I don't want to pretend sitting there.
"It's so unpredictable and many things happen. I (could) hurt someone sometimes with the delivery."
Despite disagreements, Guardiola prefers focusing on his managerial duties: "We can agree and disagree. My job is here, their job is there. I wanted to defend my club, it's not personal.
"I know how difficult it is. I was a football player before, now a manager and our business is so complicated and so unpredictable, I don't want to hurt my colleagues in a position to do it. Maybe it will happen in the future - but honestly I don't think so."
City are currently sixth in the Premier League after a rocky start to the season. Following defeats to Bournemouth, Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester United and Aston Villa, Guardiola's side are currently on a three-game unbeaten run.
After the FA Cup third round, the Blues will take on Brentford in the Premier League on Tuesday, January 14.
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Manchester City wrapped up the 2023/24 season with a fourth successive Premier League title, but they missed out on another Treble with defeat in the FA Cup final and Champions League quarter-finals. It's now time for Pep Guardiola and co to turn their attention to the transfer window.
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