Pep Guardiola, Manchester City manager, responded respectfully and firmly to Jürgen Klopp's recent criticism of the Club World Cup, a tournament that the German described as a factor of overload in the football calendar.

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The Catalan coach assured that he understands the position of the former Liverpool manager, but also defended the importance and pride that he represents to participate in this international tournament.

Guardiola understands Klopp, but defends the World Cup

“Jurgen, we fought many times, I know where that idea comes from,” said Guardiola in a press conference prior to City's match against Al Hilal in the round of 16 of the tournament.

"We fought a lot in England, when we went to the UEFA meetings, particularly in the Premier League to decide the calendar. If the players rest, you have more quality," reasoned the Spanish coach.

The City coach made it clear that, although he does not consider the current calendar ideal, his team will take on the challenge with the greatest responsibility:

"Since we are here, we are going to give our best. We are proud to be here. Many clubs complain about this tournament, but if they had the opportunity, they would also love to play in it."

“It's not ideal, but we're here to compete.”

Guardiola was realistic in acknowledging that the timing is not the most convenient in terms of preparations for next season:

"I would like to have two months before the start of the campaign, yes. But it is what it is. We coaches are not the ones who organize these competitions, that's done by FIFA, UEFA and the leagues."

Despite this, he appeared focused on the tie against the Saudi team and what is at stake:

"We've reached the moment of truth. We played a good group stage; the first two games weren't great, the last one was much better. Now there are no second chances. Either we continue or we return home."