Table of Contents
- Pep Guardiola's Stance on Player Weight
- Holiday Festivities and Fitness
- Weight Control Measures
- Rest and Recovery for Players
PEP GUARDIOLA will take decisive action if his Manchester City players gain weight during the Christmas season.
The title contenders are currently just two points behind the leaders and have achieved seven consecutive victories across all competitions.
Pep Guardiola will dismiss players who return from their Christmas celebrations overweightCredit: Getty
However, he does not want their progress disrupted by festive indulgence.
They will face Nottingham Forest away just two days after Christmas.
Guardiola has pledged to let go of any player who overindulges during the holiday season.
The Spaniard firmly believes in maintaining high fitness levels, having previously excluded players for similar reasons.
Pep disclosed that every City player was weighed following Saturday’s 3-0 victory against West Ham.
Guardiola has warned that he will continue his battle against excess weight with a second weigh-in after the Christmas festivities.
Any player who returns “three kilos” heavier will face serious consequences.
Such players will not be included in the trip to Forest over the weekend.
Instead, they will likely be required to work hard to shed the extra weight.
Guardiola stated: “Yesterday every player was weighed.
Kalvin Phillips is among those who have faced Guardiola’s scrutiny over weightCredit: Getty
“On the 25th, I’ll be monitoring how many kilos are gained. If they return overweight.
“They can enjoy Christmas, but I want to keep them in check.
“If someone shows up three kilos heavier, they will stay in Manchester. They won’t travel to Nottingham Forest.”
Despite worries about weight gain, Guardiola is pleased to offer his players additional rest, as the traditional Boxing Day fixtures have been reduced to just one game between Manchester United and Newcastle.
He added: “What I’ve learned from England is to give as many days off as possible. The schedule is very demanding, and players need to spend time with their families, away from football.
“The better their mood and the fresher their legs, the better they perform.
“That’s why I need to recover. I will be with my family, enjoying champagne with my 94-year-old father — give me more, give me more days.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a player returns overweight after Christmas?
Any player who is found to be three kilos heavier will not be allowed to travel for the match against Nottingham Forest and will have to work to get back into shape.
How does Guardiola manage player fitness during the holiday season?
Guardiola emphasizes high fitness levels and conducts weigh-ins before and after the holiday season to ensure players maintain their weight and fitness.
Is Guardiola allowing players to enjoy Christmas?
Yes, Guardiola acknowledges the importance of spending time with family during Christmas, but he also wants to monitor players' indulgence to maintain fitness.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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