Pep: Club World Cup Brings a Thrilling New Challenge

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his excitement for this summer’s expanded FIFA Club World Cup, seeing it as a fantastic opportunity to engage with new football cultures and styles from across the globe.

While City’s current priority remains finishing the domestic season on a high—reaching a third consecutive FA Cup final and pushing for a top-five finish in the Premier League to secure Champions League football—the buzz around the Club World Cup is steadily building with less than 50 days until kickoff in the United States.

The new format brings together top clubs from every continent, promising a tournament full of diverse tactics, environments, and memorable moments. City are set to face Wydad AC (Morocco), Al Ain (UAE), and Juventus (Italy) in the group stage, with matches scheduled across Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Orlando.

Different Cultures, Different Styles

Guardiola shared his appreciation for encountering a variety of football philosophies, something he believes lies at the heart of the game’s global spirit:

“What’s amazing in football is the contrast—different cultures, different managers, and different ways to play. We’ll see how we finish the season and how we go into the tournament. Then we take it step by step. That’s the essence of football.”

He emphasized that each tournament is a fresh journey and reflected on how these experiences offer more than just competition—they offer growth:

“It’s not always the same style. That’s culture, and it’s beautiful to experience.”

Learning from the Best

Reflecting on the influence of legendary Dutch coach Johan Cruyff, under whom he played at Barcelona, Guardiola credited much of his tactical evolution to Cruyff’s open-minded vision:

“Johan Cruyff expanded my perspective. Without him, I might not even be a manager today. He taught me to be curious and innovative in football.”

Connecting with Fans Worldwide

City’s growing global presence is something Pep takes great pride in. After pre-season tours across the USA and Asia, the Club World Cup is another opportunity to strengthen bonds with the international fanbase:

“Seeing fans wearing our shirts, asking for photos, and showing their support worldwide is incredible. It shows how far the club has come and fills us with pride.”

As the countdown to the Club World Cup continues, Guardiola is eager to embrace both the competitive challenge and the cultural journey that lies ahead in the United States.