Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has implemented stringent fitness protocols during the Premier League’s festive break, mandating weight checks for all players upon their Christmas Day return. The Spanish tactician issued a stark warning that any squad members exceeding their prescribed weight limits would be excluded from selection for the crucial December 27 fixture against Nottingham Forest.
This development follows City’s commanding 3-0 victory over West Ham United on Saturday, which maintained pressure on league leaders Arsenal. Despite extending their winning streak to five matches, Guardiola expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance level, subsequently denying players’ requests for post-match rest days.
Guardiola elaborated on his methodology: “Every player has an established weight benchmark. We will conduct measurements upon their December 25 return to assess potential weight gain. While I encourage them to enjoy festive meals, maintaining physical conditioning remains non-negotiable.”
The multi-title-winning manager specified the consequences: “Should any player return carrying additional kilograms, particularly the three-kilo threshold, they will remain in Manchester rather than joining the squad for our Nottingham Forest encounter.”
Acknowledging the Premier League’s demanding schedule, Guardiola emphasized the importance of strategic recovery: “Players must mentally disengage from football during this brief period. While they should cherish family time, physical preparedness cannot be compromised. Optimal conditioning ensures match-ready freshness.”
The team’s schedule includes three days of leave followed by two intensive training sessions preceding the Forest match, reflecting Guardiola’s renowned exacting standards that have delivered six Premier League titles during his Etihad tenure.