Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that clubs and fanbases not participating in the FIFA Club World Cup are likely jealous of those that are.
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This past weekend, Jurgen Klopp made some strong comments concerning the FIFA Club World Cup. The German tactician branded it a “pointless tournament”, and his former rival Guardiola has admitted to sharing some of that sentiment.
"After this, let's see what happens," the Spaniard said, as per ESPN.
"Let's see what happens after the final. We can rest and take the time that the Premier League has allowed us to rest and then we will see.
"Maybe in November, December or January, it will be a disaster, we are exhausted and the World Cup has destroyed us. I don't know, but it's the first time in our lives that this has happened.
"Mentally, I think in the past the players have played in World Cups or European Championships for their national teams, so it happens sometimes. You need a rest mentally sometimes, you can recover and then we will see when we come back."
While he acknowledged the toll the competition could take, Guardiola suggested that clubs not involved in the tournament may simply envy those who are.
"Listen, I fought a lot with Jurgen many, many times," Guardiola said.
"I know where his idea comes from. His comments [on the Club World Cup] didn't surprise me a lot. I understand him. I respect him. Now, he's stepped back from that position [as a manager] and I understand his argument, because I would defend his argument, as well.
"As managers, we don't organise the competitions. Once we are here, we are proud. Many, many teams complain about these competitions because they are not here; otherwise, they might love being here.
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"They would have their media and supporters here, and there would be income to be here and they would be happy to be here," he continued.
"Of course, it's not an ideal situation for the manager. Would I love to have two months to prepare for next season? Yes. Would I love to be refreshed for next season? Yes."
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