Pep Guardiola has identified a key moment that helped his team come back to life | OneFootball

Manchester City won their eighth consecutive match in all competitions when they beat Nottingham Forest 2-1 at The City Ground on Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s team’s spirit and determination shone through, and it helped them overcome a tough opponent on Saturday. It does stand out that there is spirit and energy back in this City squad after a tough 24/25 season for Pep Guardiola’s side. Speaking after his team’s important win over Nottingham Forest, Pep Guardiola has identified one specific moment that has been key in his team’s revival.

Pep Guardiola believes that Manchester City’s time at the FIFA Club World Cup has greatly benefited his side.

Speaking after his team’s win over Nottingham Forest, Pep Guardiola shared his belief that Manchester City’s time in the United States during their FIFA Club World Cup campaign last summer has played a key role in his team’s growth. Guardiola explained: “When we went out to Al-Hilal, it wasn’t the fact we didn’t win the Club World Cup – it was the fact we were so good there. It wasn’t holidays. I was annoyed because we were good there.”

“Good in the training, the players in Boca Raton, in front of the beach, everyone was happy, we made a lot of dinners, a lot of talks on what was going to happen this season. And we wanted to extend to live there.”

“But after that, I spoke with Pep (Lijnders), James (French), Manel (Estiarte), Hugo (Viana), Txiki (Begiristain), and something changed.”

“It doesn’t mean we’re going to win but to recognise a team who can do eight wins in a row and compete in the way we do it.”

This Manchester City side has benefited from a new beginning last summer.

Manchester City was quick to point out that last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup was the beginning of a new season. It was a fresh start for Pep Guardiola’s side after a trying and testing 24/25 season. Although City went out of the tournament earlier than they would’ve liked at the hands of Al-Hilal, the benefits of City’s participation are clear to see.

Manchester City’s new signings and coaches had the opportunity to work together for the first time. The tournament was also a chance for the new-look Manchester City side to bond and build the team spirit that has been key to Manchester City’s play this season. That process began way back at the FIFA Club World Cup. There is still improvement to come in Manchester City’s play but the spirit that defines this City team has continued to grow since the seeds were planted in the United States.

Summary.

Pep Guardiola believes that Manchester City’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign has played a key role in his team’s resurgence this season. The opportunity to get away and work together proved to be invaluable for the Manchester City players and staff. A strong team spirit was formed in the United States and it has shone through throughout Manchester City’s recent eight-match ubeaten run.