PEP GUARDIOLA is facing difficulties as he navigates through Manchester City’s recent streak of losses.

The Catalan manager has acknowledged that these challenging moments can influence various aspects of his life, including his sleep and eating habits.

With his children now adults and his wife Cristina back in Barcelona, Pep understands that managing during a series of defeats can often feel isolating.

This week, he expressed: “You may be surrounded by people, but the pain of losing is something you endure alone.

“Yes, friends are there to support you, but when you lie down and turn off the light, there’s no comfort to be found.

“You have to accept the loss, take a day or so to reflect, and then bounce back.”

Guardiola maintains that his mindset is not significantly different from the spring when his team was crowned champions for the fourth consecutive time.

This comes despite a discouraging record of seven losses in their last ten matches — matching the amount of defeats City faced in 105 games up to late April.

The abrupt slump of his once-dominant squad has left many puzzled.

Last month, Guardiola was seen with visible marks on his head and a cut on his nose after a match against Feyenoord.

Initially, he attributed it to his long nails, but clarified this week that there is more to the situation.

Man City manager Pep Guardiola performs a song for Barcelona’s 125th anniversary

Pep Guardiola’s Struggles at Man City

PEP GUARDIOLA has confessed that sleepless nights plague him during this challenging period, which he describes as his toughest time as a manager.

Here’s a rundown of the last 10 matches for the three-time defending Premier League champions…

Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT

Nov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT

Nov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEAT

Nov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT

Nov 23: Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEAT

Nov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAW

Dec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT

Dec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest 0 – WIN

Dec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAW

Dec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT

TOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7

He remarked: “I have a skin condition. I’ve been on antihistamines for two to three years. Yes, my nails did cause some issues with my nose, but there’s more to the story.”

As he approaches his 54th birthday next month, Guardiola mentioned in a recent interview that he doesn’t feel vibrant enough for another managerial role following his time at the Etihad.

Many are now questioning if he possesses the necessary energy for the rebuilding process that awaits at City.

A number of veteran players, who found tremendous success under his management — including Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, and Ilkay Gundogan — are nearing the twilight of their careers.

Having achieved nearly all of his aspirations — and more — with City, some are skeptical about his ongoing drive for further successes.

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Nevertheless, amidst the turmoil of the last seven weeks, it’s notable that he extended his contract for an additional two years at the Etihad during this tough spell.

It was Pep who kickstarted the discussions — even while grappling with four consecutive losses — and a decision was reached in just a few hours.

Given the recent struggles and issues he faces, he might be reflecting on his decision.

However, those close to him insist he feels no regrets and is more committed than ever to reversing the season’s trajectory.

He accepted the challenge less than a month ago, and there’s little indication he has reconsidered.

I have a skin issue. I’ve been using antihistamines for the past two to three years. Yes, my nails contributed to some issues with my nose, but the rest stemmed from this condition.

Pep Guardiola

Throughout the season, Pep has believed this was not the right time for him to hand over the reins to a successor, and three months in, he stays firm in that belief.

The looming decision concerning the 130 charges of financial misconduct weighs heavily on him, as he has shared his dedication to the club he values during tough times.

Additionally, the Club World Cup in the USA this summer will further complicate the commencement of the next season, which he is also considering.

Guardiola is convinced that it is crucial to guide City through this challenging period, and he remains committed to doing just that.

Despite everything, Pep anticipated that this season would be tough — partly due to the pressure following their recent accomplishments and the international commitments many of his players had during the Euro 2024.

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Nevertheless, he did not anticipate facing such intense challenges, compounded by injuries that escalated the early-season hurdles.

Still, he remains optimistic that with the return of key players from injuries, they can reignite their winning momentum.

Nothing that has transpired since the onset of this downturn in late October has diminished his confidence.

He remarked: “I’ve learned in football not to suppress your emotions or deny what you feel in the moment.

“If I’m feeling down, I acknowledge it, but I trust that the feeling will eventually pass. That’s my perspective.”

A victory against United in the derby on Sunday could serve as a catalyst for that recovery.