Pep Guardiola has opted to rotate his squad ahead of a Champions League trip to Real Madrid, with John Stones and Oscar Bobb coming into the side. However, the notable omission of 23-year-old Phil Foden has attracted attention. Guardiola explained that the decision was difficult, attributing it to the team’s packed schedule, including a recent 96-minute match against Arsenal and friendly games for the national team.
Guardiola addressed suggestions from Rio Ferdinand, denying any reluctance to field Kevin De Bruyne and Foden in the same XI. He emphasized his desire to have Foden on the pitch and acknowledged the challenge of managing numerous games and players. City’s situation in the title race adds weight to Guardiola’s decision, as they trail Liverpool by three points and are two points behind second-placed Arsenal.
Nevertheless, City have the opportunity to make an impact in the title race, with their nearest competitors also having challenging fixtures this weekend. Arsenal plays at Brighton later in the day, while Liverpool faces Manchester United on Sunday.