Winner of the League Cup with Manchester City against Arsenal (2-0), Pep Guardiola enjoyed the 40th trophy of his career… while releasing a statement which is already causing a lot of reaction in Europe. Asked about the best teams of the moment, the Catalan technician cited Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona… and Arsenal. But not Paris Saint Germain, although they hold the title in the Champions League. An outing that looks like a real low blow for Luis Enrique.
Guardiola zaps PSG despite his demonstrations
The City coach’s statement, on Sky, is clear:
“Apart from Bayern Munich and maybe Barcelona, Arsenal are the best team in Europe. »
A choice that inevitably surprises. Because at the same time, PSG remains with two impressive performances against Chelsea in the round of 16 of the Champions League (5-1 then 3-0 victories).
Dominant in the game, efficient in front of goal and solid defensively, the Parisians seem to have regained a European dimension. Enough to fuel incomprehension among certain observers, who see in this omission a form of message sent to Luis Enrique.
Barça and Real still at the top according to Guardiola, but not PSG!
If he snubbed Paris, Guardiola did not hesitate to highlight the two Spanish giants.
The FC Barcelonaimpressive offensively this season, and the Real Madridwho fell to Manchester City in the Champions League, continue to serve as references in the eyes of the former Blaugrana coach.
For Guardiola, these teams have consistency and experience at a very high level which naturally places them in the very closed circle of favorites.
A bout of pressure… or a mental strategy?
This position can also be interpreted as a psychological maneuver. By promoting Arsenal, Guardiola strengthens the confidence of his own players after the European elimination.
But by forgetting PSG, it also sends a signal: to be considered an absolute reference, Paris must still confirm over time.
The message is clear: despite its status as European champion, the Parisian club must continue to prove that it can dominate the biggest over several seasons.
Response expected on the ground
PSG will have the opportunity to respond very quickly, with an explosive quarter-final against Liverpool FC.
A convincing qualification could reshuffle the cards… and force Guardiola to review his ranking of the best teams of the moment.
At the end of the season where every detail will count, this little sentence could well become a powerful driving force for the Parisians.
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