Guardiola reveals why he gave Donnarumma & Man City teammates day off ahead of Champions League clash | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola has explained why he gave his Manchester City players, including Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, a full day off ahead of their Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund.

City would usually train the day before a European fixture, with the first 15 minutes open to the media, but Guardiola decided his squad needed extra recovery after their recent Premier League efforts.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 14: Erling Haaland celebrates with Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City after a save during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Guardiola reveals why he gave Man City stars a day off

“We will train tomorrow morning,” the Catalan coach told reporters at his pre-match press conference, with quotes via The Independent. “I have done it a few times. Sometimes I prefer it. It was such a demanding game against Bournemouth, I prefer they stay at home.”

Guardiola’s side defeated Bournemouth on Sunday, while Dortmund have had a longer rest, last playing on Friday. The City boss admitted the schedule favours teams in other leagues.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

“In Germany and France they try to play on Friday,” Guardiola added. “Here it’s completely the opposite. But if I don’t like it, I go and train in Germany or France.”

The Premier League champions will resume preparations on Wednesday morning before hosting Dortmund at the Etihad later that evening.