Guardiola's comment about wanting to hurt himself could indicate the intense pressure he feels amid the team's poor performance, which has raised questions about his mental state and the team's morale.
This draw marks Guardiola's first experience of squandering a three-goal lead in his coaching career, highlighting a rare and troubling trend for a manager known for his tactical acumen and success.
The match against Feyenoord not only complicates Manchester City's Champions League ambitions but also reflects a broader issue within the team, as they struggle to maintain consistency and confidence in their gameplay.
If Manchester City continues to struggle, it could lead to further scrutiny of Guardiola's tactics and management style, potentially affecting his position as head coach.
The upcoming match against Liverpool will be crucial for Manchester City; a loss could deepen their crisis and impact their chances in both the Premier League and Champions League.
Guardiola may need to reassess his strategies and player management to restore the team's confidence and performance levels, especially in high-stakes matches.
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola appeared with visible scratches on his face after a disappointing 3-3 draw against Feyenoord Rotterdam in the Champions League. The match saw City leading 3-0 before conceding three goals in the final quarter of the game, marking a significant setback for the team, which is currently experiencing a crisis with five consecutive defeats prior to this match.
During a press conference following the game, Guardiola explained the scratches, stating, "I did it to myself with my finger, with my nail. I wanted to hurt myself," which raised concerns about his well-being. Despite the serious nature of his comment, he delivered it with a sense of humor, laughing as he left the press conference.
Guardiola acknowledged the gravity of the situation, describing the draw as akin to a defeat and emphasizing the need for his team to stabilize their performance. He noted that the team has been fragile and expressed a desperate need for a victory, especially with an upcoming match against Premier League leaders Liverpool.