Manchester City will kick off their chase for a fifth consecutive Premier League title this weekend against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The champions will kick off their Premier League campaign with several key players underdone or not available at all. But despite this, the champions will be striving to be at their best against Enzo Maresca’s side.
After a busy summer of internationals, the champions have had a host of players return late to pre-season training. Rest for players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Rodri and a host more has been the priority for Pep Guardiola and his coaching staff. Given that the majority of City’s squad were involved in the European Championships it makes sense that rest was preferred to pre-season training.
But despite this Pep Guardiola knows his side will have to be at their best to pick up three points against Chelsea. Playing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge is no easy task at the best of times. But off the back of a shortened pre-season for many of City’s players makes it a little more difficult than usual.
READ MORE: Manchester City will face the unknown against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking during his pre-game press conference yesterday Pep Guardiola told the media that his team is striving to be at their best tomorrow. He explained that City’s build up to tomorrow’s game hasn’t been ideal but that is no excuse. He explained: “We prioritise the rest, absolutely. I would love to give even more time, but it is what it is. I demand the best from Sunday against Chelsea. We know we have to take points as soon as possible and when the players are fitter and better physical condition, they have to be ready. I don’t know what will happen. Everyone knows we are not in the best conditions but it doesn’t matter, the desire and trying to do well and here control absolutely everything of luck.”
It could be a slow beginning to the 24/25 season for Manchester City. A combination of factors could be considered an impediment for the world champions. But as Pep Guardiola explained yesterday that is no excuse for the reigning Premier League champions. They will be striving to be at their best tomorrow against Chelsea. Based on the two Premier League meetings between the two teams last season City may have to be at their best to pick up all three points tomorrow.
