Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his frustration after revealing his club has been hit with more than £3 million in fines for consistently starting the second halves of Premier League matches late.
The Cost of Being Late
Guardiola disclosed that the reigning champions have been penalised for 30 late second-half restarts over the past three seasons. The strict Premier League regulations have cost the Etihad club a small fortune, leading to changes in their routine ahead of their trip to face Newcastle United.
"A lot," Guardiola replied when asked about the number of fines. "Sometimes I arrive one minute later but the rules are the rules." He explained that training schedules sometimes conflict with press conference requirements, putting him in a difficult position. "The club said if I don't start by 2pm they will fine me or fine the club."
Guardiola's Burning Boy Comparison
In a light-hearted dig at the authorities, Guardiola pointed out the inconsistency in enforcement, recalling the 2023 Champions League final where a pre-match performance by Nigerian artist Burna Boy caused a delayed kick-off.
"We paid a lot of money as I'm late at half-time, but when we played in the Champions League final they had a show before the game and they are always late," Guardiola remarked. "They have to fine the singers!"
The City boss has taken proactive measures to avoid further penalties, bringing forward his pre-match press conference to 9am before travelling to Newcastle. "The journalists have had their breakfast and will need to take a coffee," he joked about the early timing.
Title Charge and Haaland's Milestone
Despite the fine controversy, City approach the busy festive period in strong form following their victory over Liverpool before the international break. Guardiola expressed confidence in his squad's ability to challenge for their seventh title in nine seasons.
"If we continue the squad fit, we'll compete every single game and every single competition, I don't have any doubts about that," the manager stated.
The City squad travels to St James' Park with only midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovacic missing, while Erling Haaland approaches a significant personal milestone. The Norwegian striker, who recently helped his country qualify for their first World Cup in 28 years, is one goal away from scoring his 100th in the Premier League.
Guardiola praised his star forward: "He's incredible this season, he's breaking all the records, personal and individual records, Premier League records. As a football player, world-class player, he deserves to play a World Cup and live the experience."
