Pep Guardiola’s legacy as one of football’s greatest managers is built on an unwavering demand for excellence. This ethos is central to Together: 4-In-A-Row, the new CITY+ documentary that chronicles Manchester City’s remarkable 2023/24 campaign, culminating in an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title.
The documentary offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of a record-breaking season, featuring exclusive interviews with Guardiola, Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, captain Kyle Walker, Director of Football Txiki Begiristain, and City Football Group CEO Ferran Soriano. These insights reveal how Guardiola’s relentless standards continue to drive Manchester City to unparalleled success.
A Culture of Accountability
Guardiola’s refusal to accept complacency is a recurring theme in the documentary. After the historic Treble-winning 2022/23 season, some critics speculated that City’s players might lose their hunger for victory. Guardiola quickly dismissed such claims, emphasizing that every player in his squad must earn their place through commitment and hard work.
“I’m there and they will not play,” Guardiola states firmly. “They know it doesn’t matter [how big is] the name. If they don’t do what they have to do, they will participate less than normal.”
This no-nonsense approach ensures that every member of the team, regardless of their stature, understands that maintaining the club’s high standards is non-negotiable.
Fresh Faces, Renewed Drive
Guardiola was acutely aware of the potential challenges following the Treble triumph. How would the team respond after achieving so much? To ensure the squad stayed motivated, City bolstered their ranks with the signings of Jeremy Doku, Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, and Matheus Nunes.
The manager also implemented a motivational message at the City Football Academy (CFA): “No team has won four consecutive Premier League titles… yet!” This served as a constant reminder of the historic opportunity before them.
“After the Treble, even myself, I didn’t know how we would react,” Guardiola admits. “I think with the new ones, they settle and realize how we behave, what are our standards, and what we have to do to defend it.”
Managing Highs and Lows
While the season delivered many triumphs, the documentary doesn’t shy away from showcasing the challenges. From Rodri’s red card against Nottingham Forest to Phil Foden’s foul leading to a late penalty against Crystal Palace, the cameras capture Guardiola’s intense reactions.
The manager is candid about his emotional responses. “I’m not really proud sometimes, right after the game, when I’m angry for my emotions to pass it on to the players,” he says. “I am a human being, I make mistakes, but I don’t like that.”
These moments of vulnerability highlight Guardiola’s human side and his self-awareness as a leader striving for balance.
Consistency is Key
The documentary also underscores the importance of consistency in City’s success. Guardiola emphasizes the critical nature of starting strong. “In the first month, you cannot win the Premier League, but you can lose it,” he explains.
City’s ability to maintain focus, even in the face of setbacks, is a testament to their deeply ingrained culture of resilience. This stability is reflected in the squad’s unity, work ethic, and understanding of what it takes to sustain success at the highest level.
A Must-Watch for Football Fans
Together: 4-In-A-Row is more than just a celebration of Manchester City’s achievements. It’s an intimate look at the dedication, discipline, and determination that drive one of the world’s greatest football teams. Guardiola’s leadership, combined with the squad’s unwavering commitment, offers a blueprint for excellence that transcends the sport.
Now available to CITY+ subscribers, the film is a compelling reminder of why Manchester City remains at the pinnacle of football. For fans and aspiring professionals alike, it’s an inspiring testament to what is possible when ambition meets accountability.
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