Jamie Carragher delivered a scathing critique of Pep Guardiola following Manchester City’s 2-0 loss to Juventus in the Champions League, extending their dismal run of form. The defeat marked City’s sixth away loss in seven matches and left them struggling in the Champions League standings, sitting just one point above the elimination zone.
Carragher’s Analysis
Speaking on CBS Sports, Carragher didn’t hold back, emphasizing Guardiola’s inexperience with such a prolonged crisis.
- “This is a massive crisis. The greatest and most successful manager potentially of all time, and he’s got no answers for it right now.”
- “He’s never gone through this before, so he’s got nothing to fall back on. There are probably a lot of coaches around the world looking at Pep with a wry smile, thinking, ‘Finally, Pep Guardiola is going through something that we’ve all been through.’”
Carragher suggested Guardiola’s struggles stem from his unfamiliarity with such a significant slump, having rarely faced prolonged adversity in his illustrious career.
A Jab at Guardiola’s Contract Extension
Carragher also made light of Guardiola’s recent decision to extend his stay at City until 2027, quipping:
- “Why did I sign that contract? That’s what he’s thinking.”
City’s Ongoing Struggles
City’s defeat to Juventus leaves them in a precarious 22nd place out of 36 teams in the Champions League standings. With only one win in their last 10 games—a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest—questions about their trajectory this season are mounting.
Their upcoming matches include a high-stakes Premier League derby against Manchester United at the Etihad and a critical Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on January 22.
Guardiola’s Challenge
The loss has fueled discussions about Guardiola’s ability to navigate this tough period. While his tactical brilliance and past successes remain unquestionable, Carragher’s comments highlight the unprecedented nature of the challenge Guardiola faces.
As City prepares for their next matches, Guardiola will be under immense pressure to reverse their fortunes, both domestically and in Europe.