Pep Guardiola takes a jab at rivals: 'If you spend a lot, you should win the title'

As Man City's transfer strategy comes under scrutiny, Pep delivers a subtle reminder, implicitly shifting the pressure to win titles onto clubs with heavy spending.

Pep Guardiola attracted attention by admitting Man City should “spend more money,” amid criticism of the club’s transfer approach. Despite recently adding two quality signings, the Catalan coach emphasized Man City’s focus on maintaining squad balance rather than competing in a spending race or flaunting financial power.

Semenyo and Guehi are seen as signings that “hit the right timing,” supporting a long-term plan. Man City doesn’t buy just to increase numbers but concentrates on filling key positions to sustain stability. This mindset keeps the squad compact, tactically flexible, and ensures continuity, especially given the increasingly demanding schedule.

Guardiola’s remarks come as Man City faces injury challenges, forcing greater reliance on squad depth. He repeatedly stresses that operational efficiency matters more than pure spending, particularly in crucial stages of the season. This also counters the notion that Man City’s success is solely due to money.

Ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle, the Spanish coach made a playful yet pointed comment about net spending: “I’m a bit sad and frustrated because in terms of net spending over the past five years, we are seventh in the Premier League. I want to be first! I don’t understand why the club isn’t spending more! So I’m a bit ‘grumbling’ at them.”

Guardiola then “shifts” the title-winning responsibility to clubs spending more: “But with that position, like we’ve won before by spending a lot, now six clubs that have spent more than us in the last five years should be winning the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup. That’s the truth… So good luck to the six teams ahead of us in net spending over the last five years, go for it! I’m waiting here.”

Though delivered with humor, Pep’s message shows City isn’t afraid of comparisons. When rivals spend more, the Blues still chase titles through organization, squad depth, and big-match mentality. The upcoming run-in will test Guardiola’s philosophy of “efficiency over spending.”