Fri Sep 20 14:15:23 UTC 2024: ## City Boss Calls on Players to Lead Fight for Lighter Schedule
**Manchester, England:** Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has thrown his support behind calls for a less congested match schedule, urging players to take the lead in the movement. This comes after his midfielder Rodri warned of potential strike action due to the increased workload.
Guardiola, speaking ahead of Sunday’s clash with Arsenal, stressed that the issue needs to be addressed, but that the players hold the key. “If something is going to change, it must come from the players,” he said. “The business can be without managers, without sporting directors, without media, without owners, but without the players – cannot be played.”
The City manager acknowledged the growing sentiment among players worldwide. “It is not just Rodri (speaking out), it is many, many players, and not just in this country, but around the world people are starting to talk, so we will see.”
The comments follow a week where City faced Inter Milan in the Champions League, drawing 0-0. Guardiola remained tight-lipped about the fitness of Kevin de Bruyne, who limped off at halftime in the game.
Sunday’s match sees the reigning Premier League champions face off against their closest rivals. Both sides are unbeaten and will be looking to build on their midweek Champions League draws.
Despite the early season showdown, Guardiola downplayed its significance in the title race. “It’ll be important when we go to London in the second half of the season,” he said.
City currently top the table with 12 points, two ahead of Arsenal, but the manager stressed that the real test will come later in the season when they travel to the Emirates Stadium on February 1st.
First Piper 