Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is setting a firm tone for the festive season. Ahead of the team’s short Christmas break, the legendary City boss has made it clear that any player who returns out of shape will not feature in the upcoming Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on December 27.
Known for his meticulous approach and high standards, Guardiola revealed that all players were weighed before heading off for the holidays. The purpose is simple: fitness levels will be closely monitored, and anyone who returns carrying extra kilos risks being left behind.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Guardiola explained just how closely he intends to track their physical condition:
“Every player was weighed on Friday. 25 players I will be controlling how many kilos come up when they come back. If they come back FATTY…
“The moment they arrive after three days, I want to see how they come back. They can eat at Christmas, but I want to control them. I have to make a selection for the 27th against Nottingham Forest. Imagine one player who is now perfect arrives with three kilos more — he will stay in Manchester. He won’t travel to Nottingham Forest, that’s for sure.”
Guardiola’s message was blunt and precise: festive indulgence is allowed, but discipline is non-negotiable. He added:
“They can eat, but I want to control them. I have to make a selection on the 27th against Nottingham Forest. Imagine one player comes back with 3 kilos more. He will be in Manchester, he will NOT travel to Nottingham Forest.”
It’s a reminder that Pep’s City team, despite the holidays, operates under rigorous standards. Every kilogram counts, and for players hoping to feature in the crucial match against Nottingham Forest, there’s no room for slacking even during Christmas.
