Manchester City could use an eventful week as motivation against Aston Villa. Since Sunday’s 3-all draw with Tottenham at the Etihad it has been a an eventful week for the treble winners.
City was charged by the FA for failing to control their players at the end of their thrilling draw with Ange Postecoglou’s side. A controversial decision to call playback after playing advantage by referee Simon Hooper sparked a furious reaction at full-time. Erling Haaland escaped being charged by the FA for his post on X following the game. In a statement, the FA said: “Manchester City have been charged with a breach of FA Rule E20.1 after their players surrounded the match official during the Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 3 December 2023. It’s alleged that, during the 94th minute of the fixture, the club failed to ensure their players do not behave in a way which is improper. Manchester City have until Thursday 7 December 2023 to respond to the charge.”
Manager Pep Guardiola followed that news by declaring his side will win the Premier League. Speaking before City’s match with Aston Villa the City manager had full faith in his team to create history. The treble winners are seeking to become the first side in Premier League history to win four consecutive Premier League titles. He also took aim at pundit Gary Neville for his comments that his side is suffering from complacency.
Manchester City will be looking to put the drama of the week behind them against Villa. Pep Guardiola has given the impression that his side may use what’s transpired this week as motivation. His press conference gave the impression that he was creating a siege mentality at the club.
City will look to respond against Aston Villa tonight.
