Pep Guardiola has voiced his frustration over Manchester City’s FA Cup scheduling, warning that a late kick-off at Newcastle could hinder his side’s preparations for their Champions League last-16 clash at Real Madrid next week.
City face Newcastle at St. James’ Park on Saturday, March 8, with the match — broadcast live on TNT Sports — set for an 8pm kick-off. That leaves just 94 hours before City travel to the Bernabeu to face Real Madrid on Wednesday, March 11, and Guardiola is far from happy about it.
Guardiola Points to Recovery Disadvantage
“Newcastle at 8pm — thank you so much for that time to go better to Madrid with less recovery,” the Spaniard said with clear sarcasm. He highlighted the difference between arriving back in Manchester at a reasonable hour versus returning in the early hours of Sunday morning, stressing that fatigue and small margins can be decisive in elite football.
Guardiola also noted that virtually every other FA Cup side is playing at 3pm that weekend, making City the outlier. “The details make a difference,” he said. “Like a corner, like a free-kick, like a throw-in.”
Haaland Boost Ahead of Busy Fixture Schedule
On a more positive note, Erling Haaland is expected to return to fitness for Wednesday’s Premier League home fixture against Nottingham Forest. The Norwegian missed the recent 1-0 win at Leeds United after picking up a knock in training but is reportedly confident of being available.
City will be hoping to have their star striker fully fit before the demanding run of fixtures ahead.