Pep Guardiola has issued a dramatic ultimatum to Manchester City: reduce his first-team squad this summer, or he will resign.
The manager, visibly distressed by leaving players out, called it “impossible for my soul.”
Despite City’s strong performance, moving to third in the Premier League after a 3-1 win over Bournemouth, several players, including recent January signings, were omitted from the matchday squad.
Guardiola said he wants a leaner roster, stating, “I don’t want to leave five or six players in the freezer. I don’t want that. I will quit. Make a shorter squad, I will stay.”
The 54-year-old, under contract until 2027, emphasized that managing and maintaining morale with too many players is unsustainable.
While Kevin De Bruyne is confirmed to leave, and Jack Grealish’s future is uncertain, City’s squad remains extensive, listing 28 first-team members.
Guardiola insists a smaller squad is vital for “the soul of the team.”
