Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola on Saturday made a statement that seems to have caused quite a stir in public opinion. The Spaniard demanded higher turnout of club fans during home matches. This was not well received by the fans, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the comments. Despite this, Pep has stated that he does not intend to apologize to anyone. City bench number 1 said his comments were misunderstood:
"Did I say I was disappointed that the stadium was not full? An interpretation remains an interpretation. I will not apologize. I know how difficult last season was, and this time we have to make an effort together. No matter how many fans come to the stadium, they always delight me. After 5 seasons here they misunderstood me. I will not apologize. "
Meanwhile, official representatives of one of the largest groups of Manchester City fans, said that Guardiola's comments were disappointing. Kevin Parker, general secretary of the official City fan group, said:
"It is not true, our participation is excellent. He (Guardiola) does not understand the difficulty that some people have to be in the stadium in a match at 8 pm. "
However, the Spanish coach defended his argument, saying that he is not at all critical of the club's fans:
"I am infinitely grateful for the support we had in the match against Leipzig. I always say that if the fans decide to come I am grateful as I know how difficult a match is, and I understand that we need our fans. I never think about why people do not want to come. If you can not, then do not come. If the fans have a problem, I will withdraw… My goals are to be part of something bigger and to succeed together. ”
