Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola Provides Team Updates, Goalkeeper Stance, and Fan Support Plea

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the media in advance of Wednesday’s Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, scheduled for a 19:30 GMT kick-off. The following are the principal points from his press conference: Regarding player availability, John Stones remains out due to a foot injury but is anticipated to return next week. Guardiola also noted that playmaker Kevin de Bruyne has “looked even better” over recent days and is nearing full fitness. When questioned about the impact of injuries on the squad’s ability to reach its full potential, Guardiola stated: “With all the squad this season we would be close to our level we reached last season.” He affirmed that Ederson continues to be his “number one” goalkeeper, ahead of Stefan Ortega, though he refrained from confirming the starting goalkeeper for the match against Forest. Concerning Ederson’s reaction to being omitted from the squad against Liverpool, Guardiola commented: “Really good. We have known each other for eight or nine years.” Guardiola emphasized the team’s “absolutely need the support” of the fans at Etihad Stadium, adding: “The situation is what it is but they have always been there. We need them.” On the subject of how the team is managing its current run of form, he responded: “By thinking about the next one. I don’t know another way. We don’t feel sorry for ourselves. It is what it is and we have to accept it.” He characterized Forest as possessing “strong physicality, a good manager” and asserted that their league standing demonstrates “they are good.” Addressing potential squad reinforcements during the transfer window, Guardiola indicated: “We will talk internally about what is for the best in January, but it depends on the position and situation we are in.”