Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed frustration with the FA Cup schedule after his team's 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the semi-final. The win came just three days after City's Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid. Guardiola criticized the lack of recovery time for his players, particularly after the emotional toll of the midweek defeat.
Guardiola highlighted the physical strain on his squad, emphasizing the importance of player health. He questioned the decision to schedule City's match on the same day as Manchester United's semi-final, despite neither team playing midweek. The manager commended his players for their resilience and ability to secure the win despite the challenging circumstances.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed Guardiola's concerns, emphasizing the need to prioritize player well-being. Arteta emphasized the need for fair competition, especially for teams involved in European competitions. Both managers called for measures to ensure adequate recovery time for players to perform at their best.
Despite the disappointment of their Champions League exit, City remains in contention for the Premier League/FA Cup double. Bernardo Silva's late goal secured City's place in the FA Cup final, showcasing the team's character and ability to bounce back from setbacks.
The match against Chelsea highlighted the physical and mental demands on players competing in multiple competitions. Guardiola and Arteta's calls for player protection and fair scheduling reflect a growing concern for player welfare in modern football.
