Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed reporters on Friday, March 21, 2026, ahead of his team's Premier League match against Crystal Palace. During the press conference, he discussed Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Guardiola praised the Moroccan national team's achievement, calling it "incredible" for an African and Arab nation to reach that stage of the tournament. He used the example to highlight how sports can unite people, contrasting it with what he described as the media's excessive focus on his previous political statements.
The coach expressed frustration that his comments on geopolitical issues, such as the conflicts in Catalonia and Palestine, often become headline news, diverting attention from football and positive sporting stories like Morocco's success. He reiterated that his primary focus remains on Manchester City's upcoming fixtures.
Guardiola's team is preparing for a crucial match against Crystal Palace as they continue their campaign in the 2025-26 Premier League season. The manager emphasized the need for concentration on the pitch, despite external narratives.
