Guardiola credits renewed energy for Manchester City’s revival

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has attributed his side’s strong resurgence this season to a renewed mindset and restored energy, admitting that something was lacking around the club during their struggles last year.

Speaking ahead of City’s New Year’s Day clash against Sunderland, Guardiola dismissed the notion that managers can instantly fix team problems, stressing that solutions often take time.

Reflecting on the previous campaign, the Spanish tactician said there was an unexplainable drop in sharpness and intensity at the club, both on and off the pitch.

“Managers are not magicians. Sometimes you need time,” Guardiola said. “Last season, something was in the fog in Manchester, surrounding our training centre. We missed something.”

Despite his impressive managerial record, Guardiola insisted he has never publicly blamed his players or the club during difficult moments, maintaining that challenges are collective rather than individual.

The City boss revealed that the turning point came during a pre-season trip, where renewed bonding and open discussions helped rebuild belief within the squad.

“When we went out to Al Hilal, it wasn’t the fact that we didn’t win, but that we were very good there,” he explained. “The players trained well, competed well, and the atmosphere was positive.”

Guardiola said the period allowed the team to reconnect, hold honest conversations, and regain the hunger that had faded.

“Energy, energy, energy — we lost it last season,” he noted. “Now we train better and compete better.”

He added that while improved mentality does not automatically guarantee trophies, it has restored the team’s identity and competitive edge.

“It doesn’t mean you are going to win, but you recognise the team again,” Guardiola said. “Now we have eight victories in a row. It’s not easy, but we are competing the way we should.”

Guardiola, however, acknowledged that Manchester City must continue to improve, even as the club builds momentum heading into the new year.