Pep Guardiola sends “fatty” warning to Manchester City stars ahead of Christmas break | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a stern warning to his players over their level of indulgence over the festive period.

The light-hearted but pointed message followed City’s commanding 3-0 victory over West Ham at the Etihad Stadium – a result that extended their strong domestic run and underlined the standards Guardiola continues to demand even during brief breaks in the schedule.

City were in control from the opening stages with Erling Haaland once again leading the line ruthlessly and midfield asserting authority. The performance capped off another convincing display at home, keeping City firmly in the title conversation.

Beyond the result, Pep Guardiola was keen to stress that the coming days away from training to celebrate Christmas with family and friends will not be treated as a free pass. With a demanding fixture list looming, including away at Nottingham Forest, the City manager made it clear that professionalism away from the pitch is non-negotiable.

Speaking to the media following Manchester City’s win over West Ham, the Etihad head coach revealed that his first-team stars have all been weighed ahead of another assessment upon their return to work after three days break this week.

“Yesterday [Friday], they were weighed. Every player was weighed. And 25th [of December] I will be there controlling how many kilos come up, [if] they come [back] fatty,” Guardiola revealed to reporters.

The Manchester City manager continued, “The moment they arrive after three days [off], I want to see how they come back, yeah. They can eat, but I want to control them.

“I have to make a selection on the 27th against Nottingham Forest. So imagine one player was perfect and arrives with three kilos more; he will be in Manchester, he will not travel to Nottingham Forest – 10/10, that’s for sure!”

While delivered with Pep Guardiola’s trademark humour, the message aligns with the themes he has reinforced throughout the season. In recent weeks, the Manchester City boss has spoken openly about mentality, commitment, and marginal gains – particularly as City look sharper and more consistent than during last season’s difficult mid-campaign period.

The warning also reflects Guardiola’s ongoing focus on squad competitiveness. With selection decisions looming immediately after Christmas, players are acutely aware that standards in training – and physical condition – will directly influence minutes on the pitch.

Looking ahead, Manchester City’s relentless schedule leaves little room for error. A strong showing against Nottingham Forest would allow Pep Guardiola to rotate selectively while maintaining momentum, but only if players return in optimal condition.