Manchester Derby Shaken by Guardiola’s Shocking Admission
The countdown to one of football’s fiercest rivalries has taken a dramatic turn. In a fiery press conference at Old Trafford, Pep Guardiola stunned the media by admitting that three of Manchester City’s biggest stars will be absent for today’s derby against Manchester United. The usually composed Spaniard left jaws on the floor with his blunt assessment of City’s chances.
“My three best players are out today. Let’s be real—we’re going to lose. United will smell weakness, especially with Bruno Fernandes on the pitch. If he plays, they win, no doubt. If it’s to be fair, Amorim should leave out both Bruno and Amad. Otherwise, this isn’t a contest, it’s a massacre.”
The comments sent shockwaves across Manchester and beyond. Guardiola, often the master of psychological warfare, has rarely sounded so defeated. Speculation quickly spread over which names he was referring to, with reports pointing towards John Stones, Rodri, and Erling Haaland — the very spine of City’s success. Losing all three on derby day could be devastating.
On the other side, United boss Rúben Amorim will see opportunity written all over this. With Fernandes and Amad in sparkling form, the Red Devils know this could be their best shot in years to dismantle their noisy neighbours.
Supporters are in uproar. United fans are buzzing at the prospect of dominance, while City followers brace for the worst. One frustrated fan posted online: “Without Haaland and Stones, it’s finished before it begins.”
The stage is set for a derby dripping in tension, uncertainty, and high drama. Whether Guardiola’s plea for “fair play” is genuine or simply another smokescreen, one truth remains: this Manchester showdown feels more unpredictable than ever.
