Topics: Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, Manchester United, Premier League
Manchester City manager has spoken out to address the scratches that many fans have noticed on his head ahead of the match against Manchester United.
On Sunday afternoon, City welcome historic rivals United to the Etihad stadium in an eagerly-anticipated Premier League clash between two local giants.
Ahead of the match, City boss Guardiola spoke to the media and was spotted regularly scratching his head, leaving marks.
And now, the legendary manager has addressed the scratches and revealed exactly what has caused them.
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Speaking before the game against United, the 53-year-old revealed that he has been suffering from a skin condition for several years, and this is what has caused the visible scratches on his head.
“I have a skin problem. I have to take antihistamine for the last two or three years," said the City boss.
"The nails, yes, I did them on my nose. But the rest was that.”
Fans and journalists first noticed the scratches across Guardiola's head and face after City drew 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League last month.
When asked about what had happened after the match, the Catalan joked that he wanted to harm himself after his side conceded three goals in less than 15 minutes.
Following his comments, Guardiola took to social media to apologise for the joke and for making light of mental health issues and self-harm.
"I was caught off guard with a question at the end of a press conference last night about a scratch which had appeared on my face and explained that a sharp fingernail had accidentally caused this,” read a post to his official X account.
“My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self harm.
“I know that many people struggle with mental health issues every day, and I would like to take this moment to highlight one of the ways in people can seek help, by calling the Samaritans hotline on 116 123 or emailing [email protected].”
Heading into the match with United on Sunday, City are in the middle of perhaps their worst form under Guardiola with seven defeats from their last 10 matches across all competitions.
