Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has taken full responsibility for their 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Guardiola admitted that his game plan in the first half “was not good.” City, aiming to complete a historic double after winning the Premier League for the fourth consecutive time, found themselves quickly two goals down at Wembley, with Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scoring for United.
Guardiola made adjustments in the second half, bringing on Jeremy Doku, who scored a consolation goal for City. Despite the effort, it was not enough to turn the tide.
After the game, Guardiola sought to take the pressure off his players, acknowledging that the loss was only their fifth of the season. “I think my game plan in the first half was not good. But credit to United for the second goal and the quality they have,” he said.
He added, “For my decision, we were not in the right position to attack them. It was my mistake. The game plan was not good. Disappointed today, that’s normal. Teams lose finals, but this season has been extraordinary, fighting for all the trophies in a good way. We’ll rest and come back.”
