The FA Cup third-round clash between Manchester City and Salford City has sparked playful banter, with Manchester United legend Gary Neville taking a cheeky swipe at City boss Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City, FA Cup runners-up last season, are experiencing a torrid run of form. Guardiola’s side has gone winless in seven consecutive matches across all competitions, including a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool in their most recent Premier League outing.
This slump marks the first time since August 2008 that City has lost four consecutive league matches.
Salford’s Big Challenge
Salford City, a League Two side co-owned by Neville and other members of Manchester United’s famous Class of ’92, will face City at the Etihad in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
Ahead of the match, Neville stirred the pot with a post on X (formerly Twitter), referencing Guardiola’s recent struggles. He quipped: “He’s getting sacked in the morning @SalfordCityFC.”
The comment alluded to Liverpool fans’ chants during City’s loss at Anfield, where Guardiola was mocked with cries of “You’re getting sacked in the morning.”
Guardiola’s Response
The City boss fired back after the Anfield jeers by holding up six fingers, signifying the six Premier League titles he has won with the club.
Reflecting on the chants, Guardiola said: “I’m so proud of my six Premier Leagues against that team… I didn’t expect Anfield to start chanting at 0-2 that I should be sacked.”
Guardiola humorously added: “Maybe I deserve to be sacked, honestly. With the results we’ve had, maybe I’m still in a job because of the six Premier Leagues.”
A David vs. Goliath Encounter
The match between Salford and City represents a classic FA Cup tale of underdogs facing giants. While City battles through its rough patch, Salford and Neville will hope to capitalize on their opponent’s vulnerabilities and potentially pull off a historic upset.
The much-anticipated clash will take place at the Etihad, with both clubs eager to prove a point in this iconic tournament.