"Josko Gvardiol Needs Support, Not Criticism" — Guardiola Defends Josko Gvardiol After Costly Mistakes in City’s Draw with Feyenoord

Manchester City’s recent Champions League match against Feyenoord turned into a nightmare. City were leading 3-0 and looked set to take all three points, but Feyenoord mounted a stunning comeback, scoring three late goals to draw 3-3. One player who had a tough time was Josko Gvardiol, who was involved in all three of Feyenoord’s goals.

This result was hard to take, especially since it came just days before City’s big Premier League clash with Liverpool. Fans and pundits were quick to criticize Gvardiol, but manager Pep Guardiola has stood by his player, insisting that the 22-year-old deserves support rather than blame.

After the match, Guardiola addressed the defensive issues, emphasizing that City is “not stable” at the moment. Despite Gvardiol’s mistakes, Guardiola was clear: “He’s so young, he’ll learn. I’d be so wrong if I pointed fingers at him. He’s a fantastic player and a fantastic boy. More than ever, he needs support.”

Guardiola’s words highlight the need to give Gvardiol time and patience. At just 22, he’s still developing, and mistakes are part of that process. Guardiola’s focus on helping rather than criticizing is the right approach, especially given the pressures of playing for a club like Manchester City.

Gvardiol started the season strongly and was one of City’s standout players before the team’s current six-game winless streak. However, the demands of constant football seem to be catching up with him. With key defenders injured, Gvardiol has had little rest and is currently the third most-used player in the squad this season.

Former player and pundit Tim Sherwood noted that Gvardiol “looks shattered.” It’s easy to forget that, despite his maturity on the pitch, Gvardiol is still very young. The physical and mental toll of playing at the highest level can be immense, especially when things aren’t going well for the team.

It might be a good idea for Guardiola to give Gvardiol a rest. A short break could help him recharge, refocus, and regain his confidence. Taking a step back isn’t about punishment; it’s about ensuring he’s at his best for the challenges ahead.

Fans also need to show their support. Criticism won’t help Gvardiol or the team. Instead, encouragement and understanding can go a long way in helping a young player bounce back. Guardiola is right: Gvardiol doesn’t need to be told what he did wrong—he already knows. What he needs now is to feel backed by his manager, teammates, and supporters.

With important games coming up, including the match against Liverpool, City needs to regain its defensive stability. Gvardiol will undoubtedly play a key role in the team’s future success, but he needs time and support to grow through these tough moments. If City and its fans can rally behind him, Gvardiol has the potential to become one of the best defenders in the world.