PEP GUARDIOLA PRESS CONFERENCE PRE-WOLVES:
The boss speaks ahead of tomorrow’s game
Pep Guardiola is relaxed about his defensive options this season and has indicated a positional shift could fill any gaps.
Having bolstered the squad with two summer signings in Rodri and Angelino, Guardiola was also quizzed on whether there will be further additions, particularly in the central defensive role to replace Vincent Kompany.
“We are so happy with the squad we have,” he stated. “I don’t know if the players here will stay or new players will come but every time since I came here, I have been delighted with the players we have.
“Maybe (we will replace Kompany) but we have three incredible central defenders and Fernandinho can play in that position. We will see.
“When we go back to Manchester, we will see what we have and we will decide. Now is not the time to take big decisions about who will be with us.”
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The fitness of another defender, Benjamin Mendy, was another press conference query.
Benjamin Mendy has not travelled to China for the Premier League Asia Trophy but Guardiola hopes the left-back will be ready to resume training when the team arrive back in Manchester.
Asked how the defender’s recovery is progressing, Guardiola replied: “He is getting better.
“Hopefully, when we get back from the tour, he will join us.”
Guardiola added he has been impressed with City’s youthful contingent during the pre-season tour with several youngsters earning deserved acclaim for their contributions in the opening triumph over West Ham.
“We are delighted to bring young players to play with the first-team,” he continued.
“While we are arriving at the start of the season, Argentina and Brazil are playing competitions from last season so they can’t be here.
“They need time to rest but we need to play games after a week; with humidity, jet lag and a 22-hour flight.
“The young players give another alternative for us. It’s a friendly but it’s an official game against teams like West Ham and Wolves. That’s why there are here.”
