Pep Guardiola insists his experienced Manchester City players remain crucial to the club’s future despite a challenging season.
With their Premier League title defence faltering and a Champions League exit to Real Madrid, City’s only remaining silverware hope is the FA Cup. They face second-tier Plymouth in the fifth round on Saturday.
Criticism has emerged over City’s ageing squad, but January signings Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico Gonzalez, and Vitor Reis highlight the club’s efforts to refresh the team.
Speaking on Friday, Guardiola dismissed the notion of a full squad overhaul, affirming his trust in veteran players.
“There are players here who are over 30, and they will be part of the future of this club,” he said. “Except for Kevin—Kevin and the club will decide in the future—the others have contracts, and I expect them to be here next season. They are going to help us.”
Guardiola also warned against underestimating Plymouth, who shocked Premier League leaders Liverpool in the previous round.
“These teams are always tricky,” he said. “If you are not ready, you are in trouble. We have a chance to reach the last eight, and we want to do it.”
