The exchange between Pep Guardiola and José Mourinho has reignited a rivalry that stretches back to their time as opposing managers at Barcelona and Real Madrid.
This time, the tension flared after Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, where Guardiola’s gesture highlighting his six Premier League titles echoed Mourinho’s infamous reminder of his three titles following a 3-0 loss with Manchester United in 2018. Guardiola’s quip about avoiding Mourinho’s career trajectory added fuel to the fire, triggering a sharp response from the Fenerbahce manager.
Mourinho, never one to back down, referenced Manchester City’s ongoing legal challenges over alleged Financial Fair Play breaches. “I want to win, but I want to win cleanly and fairly,” Mourinho remarked. By emphasizing his preference for fair competition, he indirectly criticized City’s situation, implying that his own successes were earned without controversy.
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Guardiola later addressed Mourinho’s comments in a pre-match press conference ahead of City’s game against Crystal Palace. “It was a joke,” he clarified, expressing regret if his remarks were misinterpreted.
Acknowledging the broader scrutiny surrounding City, he added, “We are innocent until proven guilty.” Despite their rivalry, Guardiola extended an apology, insisting his intention was never to offend Mourinho but to engage in light-hearted banter.
