Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed the idea that his squad deserves a share of the £97 million prize money on offer for winning the expanded FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
FIFA has unveiled the financial rewards for the new 32-team tournament in the United States, with Europe’s top clubs—including City and Chelsea—set to receive the biggest payouts.
However, despite the potential windfall, Guardiola believes his players and staff should not receive any additional bonuses given their underwhelming 2024-25 campaign.
“We Don’t Deserve It”
City, currently fifth in the Premier League, crashed out of the Champions League before the last-16 stage for the first time since 2013. Their struggles have led Guardiola to take a firm stance on financial rewards.
“We don’t deserve a bonus this season,” he said. “The bonus, if you win, is for the club. The managers, the backroom staff, the players—we don’t deserve it, not even a watch.”
Tough Road Ahead for City
City will begin their Club World Cup campaign against Moroccan side Wydad on June 18 in Philadelphia. They are also set to face Al Ain from Abu Dhabi and Italian giants Juventus in the group stage.
The Premier League has confirmed an initial transfer window will open from June 1-10, allowing participating clubs to strengthen their squads ahead of the knockout rounds. However, uncertainties remain over key players, including Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gündogan, whose contracts expire on June 30.
When asked about De Bruyne’s future, Guardiola said: “It’s a question for the club and Kevin. He’s a player, so yes, I would like him in the USA, but I’m focused on the rest of the season.”
With City’s domestic campaign in jeopardy, Guardiola’s squad faces a battle to prove themselves before the summer tournament.
