Man City Earns Midweek Break After Champions League Advancement

Pep Guardiola to give players time off as Blues seek Champions League advantage

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Manchester City has earned a midweek game off after advancing to the Champions League round of 16. Manager Pep Guardiola plans to give the players time off during this free midweek, allowing them to rest and recharge as the team seeks an advantage in the prestigious European tournament.

Why it matters

With a packed schedule of Premier League and Champions League matches, the midweek break provides a valuable opportunity for Manchester City's players to recover physically and mentally. This could give the team a competitive edge as they push forward in the Champions League.

The details

After securing their spot in the Champions League knockout rounds, Manchester City will have a midweek game off from their usual hectic schedule. Manager Pep Guardiola intends to use this time to give the players a holiday, allowing them to rest and recharge before the next crucial stretch of matches.

  • Manchester City advanced to the Champions League round of 16 in February 2026.

The players

Pep Guardiola

The manager of Manchester City, known for his tactical acumen and emphasis on possession-based football.

Manchester City

The Premier League football club based in Manchester, England, which has won multiple domestic and European titles under Guardiola's leadership.

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What they’re saying

“We've earned this midweek break, and I want the players to use it to recharge and be ready for the challenges ahead.”

— Pep Guardiola, Manager, Manchester City (Manchester Evening News)

What’s next

Manchester City will resume their Champions League campaign in the round of 16, with the first leg scheduled for early March.

The takeaway

The midweek break provides Manchester City's players with a valuable opportunity to rest and recover, which could give the team a crucial advantage as they continue their pursuit of Champions League glory.