Guardiola threatens to leave Man City over squad size

Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Ipswich Town and Manchester City at Portman Road in Ipswich, eastern England on January 19, 2025. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR 'LIVE' SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES. AN ADDITIONAL 40 IMAGES MAY BE USED IN EXTRA TIME. NO VIDEO EMULATION. SOCIAL MEDIA IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES. AN ADDITIONAL 40 IMAGES MAY BE USED IN EXTRA TIME. NO USE IN BETTING PUBLICATIONS, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. /

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has warned he could leave the club if his concerns over squad size are not addressed.

Speaking on Wednesday, Guardiola said he has made it clear to the club’s hierarchy that he does not want a large squad, citing concerns over player welfare and fairness.

“I told the club I don’t want a big squad. I don’t want to put five, six players in the tribune, I don’t want that. I will quit,” Guardiola stated.

“If they don’t make a short squad, I will not stay. It’s impossible for my soul to put players in the tribune and not play,” he added.

Guardiola’s comments come at the end of a challenging season for Manchester City. The team lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace last weekend and are at risk of finishing the season without a major trophy.

Despite this, City are still in the race to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. A 3–1 victory over Bournemouth on Tuesday has boosted their chances. With 68 points, they currently sit ahead of Chelsea, Newcastle, and Aston Villa—each with 66 points—and Nottingham Forest with 67.

City will face Fulham in their final match of the season on Sunday. A win would secure third place in the league, and even a draw may suffice due to their superior goal difference.

Guardiola’s future at the Etihad now appears tied not just to results, but to his vision for a more streamlined and balanced squad.