Pep Guardiola responds to Jurgen Klopp over 'worst idea ever' criticism
Pep Guardiola says that he 'understands' Jurgen Klopp's criticism of the Club World Cup. Former Liverpool boss Klopp has been in the headlines after labelling it the 'worst idea ever', citing concerns over player welfare and slamming FIFA over the decision to expand the already existing tournament.
This year's competition is the first of a new format which sees 32 teams compete every four years. The inaugural edition is currently being held in the United States, where there's been scrutiny over attendances, the quality of pitches and extreme weather concerns.
Klopp, 54, recently told German publication Welt: "The Club World Cup is the worst idea ever implemented in football in this regard. People who have never had anything to do with day-to-day business or who no longer have anything to do with it come up with something."
Now Guardiola, whose City side will take on Al-Hilal in the last 16, has responded. "Listen, I fought a lot with Jurgen many, many times. I know where his idea comes from," the six-time Premier League champion began at a press conference in Orlando.
"We fought a lot in England, and also when we went to the UEFA meetings, and especially when we discussed the Premier League calendar, and how to add more quality to it. We discussed giving the managers and players more rest, because that's how you add more quality. So his comments didn't surprise me a lot.
"I understand him. I respect him. I've had an incredible relationship with Jurgen for many years as rivals. Now he's stepped back from that position as a manager and I understand his argument, because I would defend his argument as well.
"At the same time, as managers we are in a job. We follow the FIFA, UEFA, Premier League or Serie A rules. 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.
"They would have their media and supporters here, and there would be income to be here, and they would be happy to be here. 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. But it is what it is. And we deserve what we have done in the past to be here. Once we are here, let's do our best possible."
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