Pep Guardiola urges Chelsea not to fire Graham Potter
Guardiola’s Manchester City suffered a 4–0 FA Cup defeat in what Potter called a ‘tough and painful’ loss.
But despite Chelsea’s fifth defeat in seven games, the City boss told Stamford Bridge co-owner Todd Bailey that the manager “needs more time”.
With three goals scored before half-time, the fans roared in support of former boss Thomas Tuchel.
A spectacular free-kick from Riyad Mahrez, a penalty from Julian Alvarez and a fine finish from Phil Foden in the 38th minute put an end to Chelsea’s predicament.
Midfielder Mahrez scored the lone goal in the Premier League clash between the two sides on Thursday, earning a penalty in the second half.
An injury-ridden Chelsea were booed at both half-time and regular time as City beat them in a closer match.
Potter said: “Everyone had a tough first half and it was tough. We were behind a very, very good team.
“We weren’t good and we were quiet in the first 20 minutes but couldn’t attack the back line enough.
“Manchester City are very good at stopping it, but they also fall victim to us.”
And of Chelsea’s underperformance: “You can make excuses, you can look for reasons, you can say it’s not enough. Both answers are correct.
We must continue to improve and unite. It’s not good because obviously we are suffering as a football club.
“We understand the frustration of the fans and we respect that.
“Because of the lack of results, there are always other opinions, negative opinions and criticism.
“It’s part of the job, part of the challenge”
The Englishman Potter believes Chelsea will have to be as patient as Guardiola spent his first season at City.
And the Spaniards agree.
“I would say to Todd Bawley, ‘Take your time,’ ” Guardiola said.
“What he did at Brighton was extraordinary, but every coach needs time. He needed time in his first season.”
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