Pep Guardiola Cancels Man City Training Session

The manager's move could signal an attempt to replicate past success.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:38pm

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Manchester City's open training session was cancelled on Monday morning, and the decision by manager Pep Guardiola could be an attempt to replicate past success. Guardiola has a history of cancelling training sessions at key moments during the season, which some believe has helped inspire his teams to important victories.

Why it matters

Guardiola is known for his meticulous planning and attention to detail, so any changes to the team's normal routine are likely intentional. Cancelling a public training session could be a strategic move to refocus the players and create an element of surprise ahead of an important match.

The details

The cancelled training session comes just days before Manchester City's crucial match against league rivals. Guardiola has previously used similar tactics, such as cancelling training or changing the team's normal schedule, to help motivate his players and create an advantage over the opposition.

  • The training session was cancelled on Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Pep Guardiola

The manager of Manchester City, known for his innovative coaching tactics and attention to detail.

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What they’re saying

“Pep is always thinking one step ahead. Cancelling training could be his way of keeping the players on their toes and creating an element of surprise for the upcoming match.”

— John Stones, Manchester City defender

What’s next

Manchester City's crucial match against their league rivals is scheduled for this weekend.

The takeaway

Pep Guardiola's decision to cancel Manchester City's training session is likely a strategic move to motivate his players and gain an advantage over the opposition, demonstrating his reputation for innovative and unconventional coaching tactics.