Man City modifies its training schedule in response to an unwanted Nottingham Forest pitch twist
This week, Manchester City rescheduled their training after Nottingham Forest almost left them high and dry by failing to irrigate the field. After City’s most recent away game, Pep Guardiola expressed dissatisfaction with the surface, quiping cynically that the home team might have taken their opportunities if the ball had rolled better.
The City manager also made sure the players trained this week on a very dry pitch in case they were to play on that surface again, keeping in mind the challenging journey to Fulham from last season.
Premier League rules stipulate that the grass cannot exceed 30mm in length, although Guardiola has the grass at the Etihad cut to 21mm to maximise his team’s chances of winning the game. Home teams can prepare their pitch however they like as long as it is in the rules.
And while the difference may seem minuscule, City’s manager says it is as significant as playing tennis on grass or clay.
“I don’t know about the grass, last season it was so so high and dry. We have to adapt like with Nottingham. Try to fight back with three points,” said Guardiola.
“Yesterday [Thursday] we trained part of the session dry to feel it, and after we went to normal pitch. Massive [difference]. Massive, massive.
“It’s another game, another game, you have to adapt. We have played a few times in that, we have to adapt. The difference is important. We have to feel it and know what we have to do.
“It is something we have to think about. 12.30pm and 8pm is completely different. We have to adapt.
“It’s sunny tomorrow in London. We have to adapt in that situation, play in another rhythm and way. The passes must be stronger, faster, quicker.
“The control must attack the ball more. Its completely different, not basketball. Its like Wimbledon or Roland Garros. Completely different. Ask a tennis player. The speed of the ball is different. It’s the same in football.”
Pep Guardiola’s men are looking to move a step closer to another Premier League title, and the FA Cup, despite having missed out on another Treble.