Pep Guardiola insists that his style of play will require time and adjustment. The Spaniard however did hinted that he might not be given the time he wants to transform this City squad. He might be hinting to the agitations of the City boss who has been accustomed to instant results over the results.
Guardiola’s plea isn’t helped by the fact that his side has won only four out the last fifteen games in all competitions. The successive defeats first at the hands of Chelsea and then at the King Power stadium to Leicester has left them trailing the league leaders, Chelsea, by a total of seven points. City did manage to qualify for the round of sixteen in the Champions League. City would feel lucky to have avoided a tough draw and will now face AS Monaco. The manner in which the City defense completely fell asleep against Leicester would have caused a lot of doubt in the minds of supporters and hierarchy alike. City have been comfortable going forward, making runs from the flanks and feeding the ball to their spearhead Sergio Aguero however what they lack is a good defense.
In the process of rebuilding, Guardiola has made some really bold decisions like letting go of City captain Joe Hart on loan to Torino F.C, cold terms with former City player of the season Yahya Toure and many other surprising moves.
In a press conference he stated that, “If it doesn’t go well, I say ‘sorry guys, I was not able’ and another guy is coming here,” he said. “I have been here six months though so I still have time.”
“The last month I have to accept the results have not gone well. But we have to improve what I believe, not change what I believe. When it doesn’t work, you have to be strong.” He further added
“I have to accept the opinions of former players, the media, the fans because we didn’t win – but I wish and hope they will give me a little more time.” Said the City boss
Guardiola said, “Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was an example of why the Premier League club needed to be patient.”
The 45 year old admitted that this was the most challenging time of his managerial career after having enjoyed so much success at Bayern and Barcelona.