Pep Guardiola admitted he was at fault for Manchester City’s 2–0 Champions League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen, acknowledging that his sweeping rotation played a major role in the setback.
Guardiola made 10 changes to the side that lost to Newcastle United last weekend, fielding a youthful XI with an average age of 24 years and 353 days, City’s second-youngest Champions League lineup since December 2018 against Hoffenheim.
The gamble, however, proved costly as Leverkusen took full advantage at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite the inexperience, City still produced 19 shots, their second-highest total in a Champions League match in which they failed to score, behind only their goalless draw with Inter in September 2024 (22 shots).
Yet the performance lacked the control and sharpness typically associated with Guardiola’s side, leaving them with two defeats from their last four home Champions League games which is as many as in their previous 37 at the Etihad (W30 D5).
After the final whistle, Guardiola, taking charge of his 100th Champions League match as City manager, made no attempt to deflect responsibility, stressing that his selection decisions were driven by player welfare rather than complacency.
The Catalan accepted that the rotation “backfired,” and while he stood by the intention behind it, he acknowledged that the final outcome rested on his shoulders.
“I have to accept it,” Guardiola told TNT Sports.
“If we win, it wouldn’t be a problem, so I have to accept it that maybe it’s a lot, but I think playing every two or three days, we need to [make some changes], but seeing the result, maybe it’s too much.
“I take full responsibility. I think the players that started were exceptional players, but we missed something needed at the highest level. We now have to fight for the next games.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
