Man City in New York for Pre-Season Tour, First Match Against AC Milan

Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have arrived in New York, USA, for their pre-season tour. Their first opponent on American soil will be AC Milan, with the match scheduled for 5 AM on July 28th. Manager Pep Guardiola is still without some of his key players, including Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Kyle Walker, and John Stones, who are still on their summer break after EURO 2024.

Pep Guardiola has set high ambitions for the upcoming season. When asked about his objectives, the Spanish tactician stated, “My players and I share the same goals. I believe they will not disappoint the fans. We know we are the team to beat. With six Premier League titles in the last seven years, everyone wants to defeat us.

“The Premier League is a long race. We strive to do what we aim to do. We want to defend our crown with dignity. We’ve won many titles over the years. We will see how our players maintain their hunger. I’ll be watching for certain gestures, body language. Right now, I don’t know.”

In just over two weeks, Man City will face Manchester United in the Community Shield, and the Premier League 2024/25 season opener is just three weeks away. The Etihad Stadium outfit has the chance to win up to six trophies in the next 12 months. Guardiola highlighted that this goal influenced the decision on when to bring back players who participated in EURO 2024.

Guardiola added, “I told them to rejoin the squad when they feel the desire to touch the ball again. If not, stay home. The next season will be very long. They might come back a few days before or after the Community Shield. That is the plan.

“We will ask them to do some things before returning. I care more about whether they have energy and enjoy being in the locker room and during training sessions. I don’t want them to come back exhausted. It’s better for them to stay home a few extra days.”

With the Community Shield match against Manchester United looming and the Premier League season about to commence, Manchester City is gearing up for a challenging and potentially historic season. Guardiola’s strategic rest for key players is aimed at maintaining peak performance levels throughout the demanding schedule ahead.

In conclusion, Manchester City’s pre-season tour in New York marks the beginning of their preparation for the 2024/25 season. As Pep Guardiola manages his squad’s recovery and readiness, the team’s ambition to dominate both domestically and internationally remains as strong as ever.