(Football news) It would be an understatement to say that Pep Guardiola has had a successful spell at Manchester City. While Manchester United were trophyless for almost 6 years, the Spaniard won four Premier League titles and four League Cups. While congratulating the Red Devils for defeating Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, Guardiola couldn’t resist making a joke about their rivals’ financial matters. Media and fans have said that Guardiola’s success at Manchester City is largely due to the staggering amount of money spent by the Spaniard, something that has irked the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager in the past.

Speaking at a press conference, Guardiola said “Congratulations to United for the Carabao Cup and to Newcastle as well – the game was entertaining. Sooner or later it should happen, shouldn’t it? It should happen. Welcome.” When asked if Manchester United could become serious title challengers after their Carabao Cup victory, the Spaniard replied “If they spend a little more money, yes! It’s because they didn’t spend, isn’t it? It’s normal, they’re in the position they normally should be. The reality is that two teams, Liverpool and ourselves, have done incredibly well in the numbers. When I landed here I thought United would always be there, for the history, for everything, and Erik is doing an incredible job.

“It’s normal. United have to be there. Always having been opponents we were better in the previous seasons and now it’s closer. Anything can happen in the Premier League. I remember when we travelled to win our first Carabao Cup and everyone was so excited to do it. For the staff it was new, for the players it was new. The fourth time we travelled there to win the Carabao Cup for the fourth time in a row, it was, ‘Well, it’s OK, another one, another day in the office’.” Manchester City will now take on Bristol City in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Tuesday night.

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