Manchester City players left ‘annoyed’ by major change implemented by Pep Guardiola | OneFootball

Manchester City first-team players were reportedly left disgruntled by Pep Guardiola’s change to the schedule at the City Football Academy earlier this year.

The Sky Blues clinched a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title on Sunday afternoon, beating West Ham United 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium to secure their sixth title in seven years ahead of runners-up Arsenal.

Phil Foden’s first-half brace and a second-half strike from Rodri to restore the two-goal lead secured Manchester City’s third trophy of the campaign, following success in the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, and ahead of Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup Final.

The Cityzens can win their fourth trophy of the season with a win over Manchester United this weekend, with Manchester City having the opportunity to become the first club to win back-to-back Premier League and FA Cup trophies.

Sunday’s Premier League title success was Guardiola’s 17th major trophy at the Etihad Stadium, with the Catalan having also won a landmark treble last season, lifting the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and Emirates FA Cup.

The 53-year-old has maintained high standards since arriving in east Manchester in 2016, but could leave the club at the end of next season, with Guardiola out of contract at the Etihad Stadium in 2025.

Manchester City are unbeaten in their past 35 matches across all competitions, and the Blues’ recent title success could have been impacted by Guardiola’s decision to make a major change to first-team training at the City Football Academy.

Paul Hirst has revealed that Guardiola ‘annoyed’ players by changing training times in January, with the manager standing by his decision despite unhappiness from some members of the squad.

Manchester City have played 58 matches so far this season; with 43 wins, 11 draws and four defeats during the 2023/24 campaign to date.

Guardiola’s side will play significantly more matches next season, with an increase in Champions League fixtures and the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in America.