Maybe we have to live it – Pep | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola believes his emerging and evolving team will learn lessons from any setbacks like at Tottenham this past weekend.

Men's Team

Pep provides injury update ahead of Newcastle Carabao Cup decider

This is the youngest squad City have ever had under Guardiola with an average age of 25 for his Starting XI and with that, Guardiola thinks his starlet players will grow with any adversity that comes their way.

The Blues were 2-0 up at the break at Tottenham before conceding two in the second half in North London.

City have dropped six points from winning positions this year in the Premier League and the manager thinks, while frustrating, that this will only steel his developing squad for the challenges ahead.

“It’s a reality. Second half we drop what we got in the first,” he told media at his pre-Newcastle press conference.

“Maybe it’s a young team, the youngest in 10 years and maybe we have to live it.

“Maybe we stopped trying to do what we did in the first halves and we need to grow with that definitely.”

After the disappointment of two dropped points in the Premier League, it’s a switch in emphasis now this week as we attempt to reach Wembley and the Carabao Cup final.

We take on Newcastle at the Etihad on Wednesday with a 2-0 lead from the first leg as we look to finish the job in front of an expectant home faithful.

Guardiola was asked if victory and yet another final would be a welcome boost after Sunday’s frustration.

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“Yeah but it’s different competitions,” he added.

“So when you play Carabao Cup it’s a different competition and Champions League is another one and Premier League and the other ones.

“Of course, results helps but confidence is every action and every five minutes and building and breathe in the bad actions and bad moments immediately and go to the next one.”

City v Newcastle Second leg tickets available!

See the conclusion of what promises to be a thrilling final four tie at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 4 February.

Newcastle are the holders of the Carabao Cup and will be determined to hold on to their crown, while City are seeking a ninth success in League Cup history.

Tickets start from £20 for adults and £10 for concessions, while a wide range of hospitality packages starting from £250 are also on offer to make it a special occasion!

*On sale to Season Ticket Members and existing Cityzens Matchday and Junior Members (as of Tue 16 Dec 2025) who have purchased 1+ home fixtures at the Etihad Stadium. 4 tickets per person.

Get your tickets here!