Yesterday, in the FA Cup final, Manchester City unexpectedly lost to Crystal Palace 0:1, finishing the season without a trophy. After the match, the club's head coach, Josep Guardiola, shared his thoughts on the team's performance, the inclusion of Claudio Echeverri in the game, Abduqodir Husanov, and other substitute players.
Echeverri's entry: “I felt it”
Guardiola commented on Echeverri's introduction in the final:
“Actually, it wasn't a bad decision. He had three good chances on the field. I saw his movements in training and felt he could impact the game. This is the FA Cup; he needs to play in other competitions as well.”
About Husanov and Reis: “I don't like it”
Pep expressed his thoughts on the young players who remain on the bench — Abduqodir Husanov and Vitor Reis:
“Husanov and Reis always sit on the bench, play 4-5 games, and I don't like it.”
It should be noted that Abduqodir Husanov last played in the FA Cup match against Bournemouth. Since then, he has not appeared in several games.
Who should have taken the penalty?
At the press conference, journalists asked who had decided on the penalty:
“I don't know. They made that decision on the field. I haven't talked to them about it,” Guardiola said.
In the final, Erling Haaland passed the 11-meter penalty to Marmush. The Egyptian striker failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
About problems and solutions: “Stability has returned”
Guardiola commented on the team's recent state:
“In the last month, we have eliminated problems in defense and scoring. Previously, we conceded many goals; in the last nine games, we have only conceded five. We have reached a stable state.”
Comparison with Southampton: “There were many opportunities”
“We played more actively compared to the game against Southampton. We created a lot of chances. Unfortunately, we couldn't score, and victory was not achieved,” said the Spanish specialist.
Preparation for the next game
“City” head coach also spoke about the important upcoming matches:
“We have two more important games ahead. These are decisive matches for the season's conclusions and future plans. Today we rest, and tomorrow we will start preparing for the game against Bournemouth.”
Team status: “City” in 6th place
Currently, Manchester City is in 6th place in the Premier League with 65 points after 36 rounds. If they win the next match, the club could rise to 3rd place.
From the Zamin.uz editorial team:
Pep Guardiola's thoughts revealed important points regarding trust in the young players within the team, tactical decisions in the game, and future plans. Do you want Abduqodir Husanov to get a chance in the upcoming matches?
