Pep Guardiola launched a pointed attack on Sky Sports during his latest press conference, accusing the Premier League’s primary broadcast partner of distorting his statements.
The Manchester City manager responded with evident sarcasm when a Sky journalist posed a question about transfer matters.
“You are from Sky, right? OK, good,” Guardiola remarked. “I have to be careful what I say. After that, it is completely the opposite (of) what you write and put on the screen.”
The 54-year-old’s frustration with the broadcaster has intensified in recent weeks, with his comments delivered during a live broadcast adding particular weight to the public criticism.
The tensions between Guardiola and Sky have been building throughout his decade-long tenure at the Etihad, though the dispute has escalated markedly of late.
Earlier in December, Sky reporters were prohibited from posing questions at a City media briefing, a move believed to have followed Guardiola watching coverage on their 24-hour news channel.
When pressed about City’s pursuit of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, the Catalan was notably guarded in his response.
Antoine Semenyo is widely expected to join Manchester City in the January transfer window
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“That is why I said yesterday before and the day of the game – the transfer window is completely closed right now,” Guardiola stated, deflecting speculation about the potential signing whilst maintaining his combative stance towards the broadcaster.
City are working to complete a £65million transfer for Semenyo in the coming days, despite Guardiola’s reluctance to discuss the matter publicly.
The club’s January business extends beyond the Bournemouth winger, with Oscar Bobb currently in discussions with Borussia Dortmund.
Five things to know about Man City boss Pep Guardiola | PA/GETTY
The young forward is exploring a loan arrangement with the German club, which could potentially convert into a permanent £30m deal.
These negotiations suggest City are actively reshaping their attacking options during the winter window, even as their manager maintains a public stance of silence on transfer activity.
The Semenyo deal would represent a significant outlay for a player who has impressed during his time on the south coast
Guardiola’s side travel to the Stadium of Light on New Year’s Day to face a Sunderland team that remains unbeaten at home since their return to the Championship.
The Black Cats have already claimed notable scalps this season, defeating Newcastle whilst holding both Arsenal and Aston Villa to draws on their own turf.
Rodri could feature for Manchester City in their Premier League clash with Sunderland
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“Sunderland are so tough. I remember in my first season when I went there the crowd was unbelievable,” Guardiola reflected.
“It will be really difficult but at the same time we are ready.”
Midfielder Rodri could make his return, having featured for just 60 seconds since early October.
On the title picture, Guardiola noted the shifting narrative: “A few weeks ago it was just Arsenal, two days ago it was three (with City and Aston Villa) and now two so we will see.”
