Jealousy looms as Liverpool overshadows Manchester City

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City may feel overshadowed by the favorable media attention Liverpool receives. However, this sense of rivalry could fuel their ambition to secure another Premier League championship. Guardiola, evidently agitated by the media’s different portrayal of Klopp’s successes at Liverpool, uses this as motivation to maintain his team’s high performance.

Upon his arrival at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola was advised by then-assistant coach Brian Kidd to sideline the League Cup in favor of younger players, as it was perceived to lack significance. Contrary to this advice, Guardiola pursued the cup with vigor, leading City to four consecutive victories from 2018 to 2021, yet he sensed a lack of acknowledgment for these achievements.

Guardiola expressed astonishment at the widespread acclaim Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool received for their Carabao Cup victory this season. In a press conference following Liverpool’s narrow victory over Chelsea, Guardiola remarked on the apparent shift in the competition’s prestige over recent years, suggesting a disparity in how the media celebrated Liverpool’s 2022 and 2024 wins compared to City’s earlier successes, hinting at a recurring theme of unequal recognition.

No credit for City?

In May 2019, following Manchester City’s narrow Premier League victory over Liverpool, Pep Guardiola reflected on the perception of his team’s success. He implied that Manchester City’s consistent triumphs might have led to a diminished appreciation of their accomplishments. Guardiola noted the long anticipation for a Liverpool title win, suggesting that had Liverpool secured the championship, it would have been hailed as ‘incredible,’ whereas City’s win was received with a more muted response, hinting at a disparity in recognition between the two clubs.

Pep: Everyone in this country supports Liverpool

Three years after a close Premier League title race, Pep Guardiola made a controversial statement in a beIN Sports interview, claiming a nationwide bias towards Liverpool, saying, “Everyone in this country supports Liverpool, the media and everyone.” This remark was seen as exaggerated, especially considering the presence of numerous ex-Liverpool players in the media, which could imply a lack of impartiality.

Guardiola’s assertion that all of England supports Liverpool was met with skepticism, given the rivalry and criticism Liverpool faces from other clubs. He also made a pointed comment about Liverpool’s domestic league history, contrasting their European success with their single Premier League title in 30 years, which seemed to contradict his claim that the bias was not problematic, indicating an underlying frustration.

The connection between Pep Guardiola's Manchester City and Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool

The connection between Pep Guardiola's Manchester City and Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool goes beyond the surface, forming an intrinsic link that has shaped the competitive landscape of English football. Liverpool, in a peculiar way, has played a crucial role in keeping City at the pinnacle of their game and the Premier League.

Guardiola himself acknowledged the impact of Klopp's imminent departure, expressing shock at the news and emphasizing how integral Klopp and Liverpool have been to City's journey. He remarked, "We cannot define our period here together without him and Liverpool - it is impossible." This acknowledgment underscores the significance of their shared competitive history.

While some argue that the mutual respect between Guardiola and Klopp prevents the Liverpool-Manchester City rivalry from being considered one of English football's greatest, it's evident that this respect only enhances the competition. Guardiola has consistently held Anfield in high regard and has openly envied the electric atmosphere it generates during matches.

Guardiola's criticism of the Etihad crowd, accusing them of being dormant during a Premier League clash, highlights his awareness of the vibrant Anfield atmosphere. He knows that Klopp, with his adept crowd engagement, won't face the challenge of waking up a lethargic audience when the two teams meet again.

Guardiola is undoubtedly eager to secure his first-ever victory in front of fans at Anfield, considering his previous win occurred behind closed doors amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The upcoming clash presents a prime opportunity for Guardiola, especially as Liverpool seeks a crucial three points to bolster their quest for a second Premier League title under Klopp. The mere thought of this possibility is likely to fuel City's determination and drive, creating a compelling narrative as the two managerial giants prepare for another intense battle on the pitch.

Is City justified in feeling aggrieved?

Consider Guardiola's evident delight in defeating Liverpool last season, even when the Reds were not contenders for the title. His exuberant celebration, including a goal celebrated in Kostas Tsimikas' face, suggests a keen desire to assert dominance.
The news of Klopp's impending departure and the subsequent emotional outpouring may have intensified City's determination to secure a fourth consecutive title, potentially spoiling Klopp's farewell. The motivation lies in not wanting Liverpool to receive accolades that City believes are often unfairly denied to them.

Is City justified in feeling slighted? Whether Pep and his players should harbor feelings of jealousy or annoyance over media adulation for Klopp and his team's Carabao Cup victory may be irrelevant. What matters is the impact these sentiments have on City's resolve.
Ultimately, City's sustained success is driven by a love for winning, but their aversion to losing to Liverpool has also played a pivotal role. The belief that winning the same trophies as Liverpool goes unnoticed has, paradoxically, contributed to City's triumphs. The blend of these competitive emotions has propelled them forward, making them a formidable force in their pursuit of success.