With 1 win in the past 6 league games, Manchester City is not having the best of seasons. The key reason is injuries to star players and the inability of new signings to hit the ground running. Hence, you could argue that the Club World Cup is the best chance of silverware for Pep Guardiola & co. However, the Spanish manager doesn’t seem to prioritize the competition as much as the UCL.

Manchester City will start their Club World Cup campaign against the Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds on December 19th. A win helps them progress to the final and potentially win the first-ever World Cup in the club’s history.

In a recent interview, the Man City manager made his thoughts regarding the two competitions clear. Guardiola said, “The UCL is more important [than the ClubWC], absolutely! But, to play this tournament, you need to be there, and we’re going to see the environment, how it is, and play against a Japanese team Urawa, the best as possible, to deserve to get to the final. ” It seems while embracing the challenge, the CWC is not of utmost priority for the Spanish tactician.

However, Guardiola did reveal his excitement at the prospect of participating in the tournament. He added, “To go there, you have to win the UCL.” However, he did seem to imply the reason why the tournament was not his number one priority. Guardiola explained, “The schedule is what it is, results are what they are, and you have to accept it.” It seems Pep Guardiola doesn’t want to risk any injuries to his players considering the already grueling schedule.

Speaking of injuries, Man City will not be able to avail the services of long-term absentee Kevin De Bruyne. Star striker Erling Haaland also suffered an injury recently but he could end up participating as per Guardiola’s recent comments.

Pep Guardiola issues Haaland update

Pep Guardiola offered a positive update on his injured striker. As per the Man City boss, the injury was not a fracture but just stress. He also rated Haaland’s chances of featuring in the tournament. He said, “Hopefully Erling can travel to Saudi. Tomorrow, after the game, we will see if he plays the first game or second at the World Cup.”

“Still We Run, Still We Fight in the Locker Room” – Pep Guardiola Lauds Erling Haaland & Co.’s Mentality Citing Tough Matches

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Hence, it seems that the manager himself is unsure of the timeline of Erling’s recovery. While it is unlikely that Haaland will feature against Urawa Red Diamonds, it will be interesting to see if he features in the final on the 22nd, provided Man City qualifies.

Will Man City win the CWC? Let us know in the comments below.

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