Pep Guardiola was not pleased with Manchester City fans’ attitude in the first half of their Premier League clash against Tottenham on Thursday.
Spurs took a two-goal lead before the break, but the Sky Blues managed to turn the game around in the second half and grabbed a statement 4-2 victory on home soil.
« Our fans were silent for 45 minutes – I want my fans back, » Guardiola said after the game.
« I want my fans that are here – not my away fans, they are the best – but my fans here to support every corner and every action, because Tottenham are one of the toughest opponents I’ve ever faced.
« They booed because we were losing but in the second half we played good, we had more chances.
« Maybe it’s the same with our team, maybe we are so comfortable with winning four Premier Leagues in five years. »
Riyad Mahrez produced an extraordinary display to help his team complete the comeback. He recorded two goals and an assist, but Guardiola didn’t hesitate to tease his player for his performances before the 2022 World Cup.
« Riyad Mahrez, what a player, » Guardiola noted.
« Before the World Cup, he was on holiday. Now he has realised, ‘Oh!' »
Manchester City sit five points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal, who have one game in hand. Guardiola urged his players to step up in order to compete for the title.
« We have to do it, but everyone is like relaxed, » Guardiola added.
« You know. But the Premier League doesn’t wait, we have an opponent in Arsenal, they have the fire.
« I’m incredibly happy. But without change we aren’t going to win anything. I said I don’t care if we don’t win anything, I said the last years I said I have to see my team, you have to have passion for something. »
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