Pep Guardiola has hit out at claims that Manchester City were ‘arrogant’ during their pre-season tour of Asia.
The Premier League champions competed in the annual pre-season tournament in Asia, beating West Ham 4-1 in the semi-final before losing the decider to Wolves on penalties following a goalless draw.
However, Guardiola’s side have not been well received by their hosts, with the Chinese media critical of their conduct, accusing the club of arrogance and showing their hosts a lack of respect.
Man City were accused of treating the tournament as a ‘commercial obligation’ and showing a ‘lack of enthusiasm’ – claims Guardiola has now moved to deny, labelling the accusations as ‘false’.
“I should say I don’t agree and also that it’s false,” the City manager said. “To make a statement like this they have to know exactly what happened here in our club.
“We had an incredible time in Shanghai. We were committed to the co-operation you have to do here in China.
“The people from the hotel, all the people asking us to do things – we were ready to do that.
“We came here – it’s a unique experience because it’s not easy to come to Asia during the season.
“To come to Asia and experience the culture, the restaurants, it’s amazing to get to know other people. That’s why I can’t understand what people are saying – maybe one journalist is a bit upset, I don’t know why – but it’s far away from the reality.”
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