Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, expressed relief at having an extra day to prepare for their upcoming Champions League match against Juventus, allowing his team to recover after their 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace. The additional rest is especially important given the injuries and illnesses affecting several key players, including Rodri, Mateo Kovacic, John Stones, and Phil Foden.
City's injury list grew with the inclusion of Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake, both sidelined after injuries sustained during their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Guardiola acknowledged that while the medical staff is working diligently to get players back to full fitness, the reality of injuries is something that must be accepted in football.
Guardiola emphasized that despite the setbacks, the team must embrace the challenge ahead. He encouraged his players not to feel sorry for themselves, suggesting that overcoming adversity this season could lead to a greater sense of satisfaction, even if it meant facing a tougher road than in previous title-winning campaigns. City's recent Champions League form has been disappointing, with a 4-1 loss to Sporting and a 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in their last two fixtures.
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