Fresh comments from Pep Guardiola has been highlighted by Fabrizio Romano on his official X handle, where the Manchester City boss compared last season’s pressure to secure UEFA Champions League qualification with his far more relaxed mindset this year.
Guardiola’s remarks come after City’s important 2–1 win over Arsenal. Softfootball understands that the result cut the gap at the top of the Premier League table to three points while leaving City with a game in hand. The victory has intensified the 2025/26 title race heading into the closing weeks of the campaign.
The City manager explained that he is enjoying the current run-in more than previous seasons, suggesting the squad is mentally freer and playing with confidence after another strong campaign. That sense of calm could become a major advantage as pressure rises on rivals.
Romano revealed:
Pep Guardiola when asked if he’s nervous: Absolutely opposite! Nervous last season. Pressure last season… I could bring the team not in the UCL. Now we’re more relaxed than ever, even before beating Arsenal!.
Guardiola also used the opportunity to warmly praise former captain Vincent Kompany, stating that Manchester City will always remain in Kompany’s heart if he returns to England one day. Guardiola added that he hopes their paths cross again in the future.
Pep Guardiola on Kompany and Man City: Sooner or later, I have the feeling, just in case he decides in a certain moment to come back to England, I’m pretty sure Manchester will be in his heart and mind. Hopefully the path will cross at a certain point in his life….
Kompany, a legendary former City captain with a statue outside the Etihad Stadium, is currently managing Bayern Munich after proving himself in England with Burnley F.C.. Guardiola’s words have further fueled speculation that Kompany could be a long-term successor at City.
Meanwhile, Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. defeated Chelsea 3–0 at the American Express Stadium, climbing above the Blues into sixth place.
