Pep Guardiola expressed frustration over Nico Gonzalez’s injury in his debut for Manchester City, describing it as a “painful” setback. The £50 million signing, who joined the club on deadline day, started in the FA Cup match but suffered a strong challenge that forced him off the pitch early.
Gonzalez, who was immediately included in the starting XI, was knocked off the ball in the opening minutes and could only watch as City went on to win 2-1. However, Gonzalez was substituted in the 22nd minute due to the injury.
Guardiola Expresses Disappointment Over Gonzalez Injury in First Man City Appearance
Guardiola Comments on Nico Gonzalez's Injury Guardiola mentioned that the incident was one of several refereeing decisions he felt should have gone in City's favor, notably a clear penalty that was denied to Omar Marmoush in the second half. The Spanish coach also expressed hope that Gonzalez would not be sidelined for too long after the “strong kick” he received.
“I think Nico quickly understood the nature of the Premier League and the referees,” said Guardiola. “I know it's harder without VAR because the referees aren't used to it, but there were some clear decisions. I’m saying this because we won, but there was a clear penalty.”
Guardiola also noted that Gonzalez’s injury forced City to adjust defensively, with Rico and Bernardo filling in at full-back. Despite the challenges, the manager praised his team's performance, saying, "Aside from the first 10 minutes, we played a really solid game. It’s impossible to control everything in such a competition. This is my ninth season in England, and I’ve played many times in this incredible competition."
In closing, Guardiola reflected on the match: “We were lucky in the end because they had some chances, but we created many chances ourselves. It was a tight game, but we handled it professionally, responded with character, and it’s always great to make it to the next round".
