Pep Guardiola confident in his squad’s discipline over Christmas as Manchester City aim to return to the Premier League summit at Nottingham Forest.
LONDON: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised his squad’s discipline over the festive period as they prepare for a crucial Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest.
Guardiola revealed players were weighed before a short break and told to avoid over-indulgence ahead of Saturday’s early kick-off.
“I earn four or five kilos more for the amount of food and drinks that I have drunk, so it is really good,” said Guardiola.
He expressed full confidence in his players’ professionalism, stating they have maintained high standards for a decade.
Victory at the City Ground would see City return to the top of the table before Arsenal host Brighton later in the day.
City are on a run of seven straight wins across all competitions and remain in contention for multiple trophies.
“I prefer to be 10 points ahead of everyone but it is what it is. Arsenal’s doing really well but we are there,” Guardiola said.
Saturday’s match will be the first since the death of Forest legend John Robertson was announced on Christmas Day.
Guardiola acknowledged the emotional challenge of playing at Forest following the passing of the European Cup-winning winger.
“Forest away has always been tough, especially in this period and especially with an important person in the history and the legacy like Mr Robertson that unfortunately passed away,” he said.
Despite Forest’s position just five points above the relegation zone, Guardiola insisted the City Ground is a difficult venue.
He highlighted the crowd and the quality of a side that has invested significantly in recent years.
