Italian football icon Paolo Di Canio has delivered a scathing assessment of Manchester City, branding Pep Guardiola’s side an “amateur team” ahead of their UEFA Champions League showdown with Napoli at the Etihad Stadium this week.
Critical Remarks Before a Crucial Fixture
Di Canio’s remarks, made in an interview with Il Mattino and relayed by Sport Witness, come just days before City host last season’s Serie A winners in what could prove to be a pivotal opening contest in the revamped Champions League league phase.
Despite defeating Manchester United 3-0 in the derby at the weekend, City have faced intense criticism over their defensive frailties and struggles to integrate a host of summer signings effectively. Observers have warned that the reigning Premier League champions risk being exposed in Europe if adjustments are not made swiftly.
Di Canio’s Stinging Criticism
Speaking on Napoli’s chances in Manchester, Di Canio pulled no punches:
From what we’ve seen in the first few games, they’re in disarray at the back. They’ve brought in a lot of new players, and when they lose the ball, they’re almost an amateur team,
he said.
He added: Before, anyone who went to play against Manchester City respected them, but now, even if City are up 3-0, everyone knows they can recover. This is a great opportunity, and Napoli need to seize it immediately.
Guardiola Faces Pressure
Manchester City face a demanding Champions League schedule, with away trips to AS Monaco and Villarreal before a blockbuster tie against Borussia Dortmund. A meeting with Real Madrid in December further underlines the importance of making a strong start against Napoli.
Pep Guardiola has already emphasised the need for his side to adapt quickly to the expanded league phase format. With high-profile departures and arrivals reshaping the squad, City’s ability to find defensive balance could define their European campaign.
High Stakes for City
Di Canio’s comments are likely to fuel an already high-pressure contest on Thursday night. A convincing Manchester City performance would go a long way toward silencing critics and building momentum, but any early slip-up could lend weight to Di Canio’s damning assessment while giving Napoli an early psychological edge in the group.
FAQs
- What did Paolo Di Canio say about Manchester City?
Di Canio labelled City as looking like an “amateur team” out of possession this season, criticising their defensive structure.
- When do Manchester City play Napoli?
The two sides meet at the Etihad Stadium this week in City’s opening Champions League league phase fixture.
- Why is City under pressure in Europe?
Despite their attacking quality, questions remain over their defensive stability and ability to integrate several summer signings quickly.
- What other teams are in City’s group?
Manchester City also face AS Monaco, Villarreal, Borussia Dortmund, and Real Madrid in the league phase.
Conclusion
As Manchester City prepare for their Champions League opener, Paolo Di Canio’s cutting remarks have added further intrigue to the clash with Napoli. Whether Pep Guardiola’s men rise to the occasion or falter under pressure will determine if the “amateur team” label sticks or is swiftly silenced on Europe’s biggest stage.
