Man City face FA Cup doubts as Guardiola flags fatigue
Reigan Heskey hit a late top-corner winner as City beat United 2-1 to lift a fifth FA Youth Cup. Floyd Samba’s free-kick opened the scoring before Godwill Kukonki levelled. Pep Guardiola and Phil Foden watched.
Rodri, out for five games with a groin issue, is a doubt for the FA Cup final vs Chelsea. Guardiola said: ‘I don’t know.’ Bernardo Silva has filled a pseudo-six role recently if cover is needed.
Guardiola says Chelsea’s extra rest is an advantage before the FA Cup final, praises Foden’s ‘spark’, explains rotation, and admits replacing departing captain Bernardo Silva will be ‘a little bit more difficult’.
Tony Pulis praises Guardiola’s influence and hospitality traditions, reflecting on post-match time with the City boss and suggesting he would be much missed if he leaves English football.
City land five PL award nods: Haaland and Semenyo for player of the season, Cherki and O’Reilly for young player, and Guardiola for manager after Carabao Cup win and title fight with Arsenal.
Bernardo confirms he will not join Benfica after leaving Man City. Juventus hold ‘serious’ interest as he plans to decide his next club before Portugal’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Newcastle target Man City backup James Trafford as potential No 1, despite past failed bids, high wages and interest from Chelsea, Tottenham and Aston Villa.
Fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura, plus goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor, are set to leave City. Reports say Guardiola remains highly motivated, though some at the club expect he could depart after this season.
After City’s 3-0 win over Palace, Oliver Glasner hinted he may rotate against Arsenal due to their own schedule, a potential blow to City’s title hopes as they chase the Gunners late in the run-in.
