Pep Guardiola’s recent press conference ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming match against Nottingham Forest took a tense turn when he made an unexpected and pointed remark about his rival, José Mourinho. This followed Guardiola’s response to a “you’re getting sacked in the morning” chant from Liverpool fans during City’s 2-0 defeat at Anfield. In retaliation, Guardiola showed six fingers to the crowd, symbolizing the six Premier League titles he has won with City. His gesture also included showing six fingers to City’s traveling supporters.
When asked about the gesture and whether it suggested he was “losing his cool,” Guardiola firmly rejected the idea. He admitted to never having been “cool,” stating that his demeanor had always been tied to winning or losing. When asked if he might be at “the beginning of the end,” referring to a potential downfall in his tenure, Guardiola took the opportunity to turn the question into a critique of Mourinho. The comparison to Mourinho’s famous “three fingers” gesture — made when he reminded people of the three Premier League titles he won with Chelsea while managing Manchester United — became the focal point of Guardiola’s response. https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news/man-city/pep-guardiola-jose-mourinho-man-city-008892-20241204#:~:text=He%20won%20three%2C%20I%20won%20six
Guardiola subtly took a jab at Mourinho, pointing out that he had won six Premier League titles, double what Mourinho has achieved. His comments were a defiant reminder of his own success, stressing the significance of his accomplishments at Manchester City. He added that the gesture was meant to show City’s fans that they had achieved something extraordinary, despite the criticisms and chants they faced. Guardiola reaffirmed his commitment to the club, acknowledging that his time at City will eventually end, but expressing his determination to extend it for as long as possible for the benefit of the club.
This exchange occurred in the midst of a challenging period for Manchester City. The team, after a series of defeats, including the loss to Liverpool, has found itself in fifth place, 11 points behind the league leaders. City’s clash with Forest at the Etihad on Wednesday provides an opportunity for Guardiola and his team to address their slump and get back on track. https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news/man-city/pep-guardiola-jose-mourinho-man-city-008892-20241204#:~:text=completely%20the%20opposite.