Pep Guardiola aims dig at Chelsea ahead of weekend clash at Etihad

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Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola aims dig at Chelsea ahead of weekend clash at Etihad

Kolawole Babatunde 14:49 - 20.01.2025

Following Manchester City's emphatic 6-0 demolition of Ipswich Town last Sunday, Pep Guardiola could not resist a cheeky post-match comment about Chelsea, sparking plenty of chatter among fans.

The Citizens were in scintillating form at Portman Road, delivering a ruthless display to surge back into the top four of the Premier League table

Reigning PFA Player of the Year Phil Foden stole the spotlight, netting twice and providing an assist in a performance that showcased his brilliance.

But it was Guardiola’s remarks about Ipswich’s recent successes—particularly against high-profile opposition—that turned heads.

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Guardiola hails Ipswich after drubbing

Speaking after the game, Guardiola expressed his delight with the result and the resurgence of his side in the league standings. 

However, he also found time to heap praise on newly-promoted Ipswich, highlighting the trouble they have caused other Premier League teams.

"Ipswich beat Chelsea here, they won Spurs away," Guardiola remarked. "They are a good team, and Liam [Delap] is a fantastic striker. The players saw what we are, and that is the best thing."

While Guardiola’s praise might be genuine, some fans interpreted his comments as a subtle dig at Chelsea and Spurs, questioning why he brought up other teams instead of solely focusing on his squad.

Manchester City vs Chelsea
Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England; FA Cup Football, Manchester City versus Chelsea; Hakim Ziyech of Chelsea crosses the ball into the box past Mahrez of Man City

Guardiola’s remarks have only added spice to this weekend’s showdown between Manchester City and Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium, with both teams locked in a fierce battle for a top-four finish

When the two sides last met on the opening day of the season, goals from Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic secured a 2-0 victory for City at Stamford Bridge. 

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