Pep Guardiola Enforces Overnight Stay for Man City Stars Before Boxing Day Everton Clash
Manchester City players will spend Christmas night at the club’s training ground as part of Pep Guardiola’s preparation for their crucial Boxing Day match against Everton. With a lunchtime kickoff looming, Guardiola is taking no chances, implementing a strategy designed to maximize focus and performance.
Guardiola’s Bold Move to Revive Form
The decision comes during a challenging period for Manchester City, who have lost nine of their last 12 matches—the worst run of Guardiola’s managerial career. Their last victory came on December 4 against Nottingham Forest. City currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, four points behind fourth-placed Forest.
Speaking about the unusual measure, Guardiola said, “We train today, we train tomorrow night, we will stay over here, and we are going to play on Boxing Day. Hopefully, they want to be here because it’s our job
State-of-the-Art Facilities
This isn’t the first time Manchester City have used their Etihad Campus as a pre-match hotel. The club pioneered the concept in 2014, offering 80 bedrooms equipped with sleep-enhancing wallpaper and premium bedding. The setup includes custom mattresses and pillows, with a reported £150,000 investment in player comfort.
Players spent Christmas morning and afternoon with their families before regrouping at the training ground, a strategy aimed at fostering both team unity and focus.
The Challenge Ahead
Everton present a formidable challenge, having recently thrashed Wolves 4-0 and secured goalless draws against Arsenal and Chelsea. City, meanwhile, are bottom of the Premier League form table over the last eight games, with just four points—a single point less than struggling Southampton.
Despite the slump, Guardiola remains optimistic:
“This situation is new for all of us. The guys are running and making an effort more than ever. It’s not about any one player or the manager. There are little and big details we need to address, but we have another opportunity on Boxing Day.
Spirits Lifted at the Club
In a bid to boost morale, City recently hosted a Christmas party, inviting players’ families. Stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Ilkay Gundogan were seen enjoying the festivities, with their partners sharing joyful moments on social media.
City fans will hope this mix of camaraderie and tactical preparation helps their team bounce back against Everton, who are unbeaten in their last seven Boxing Day matches.