Pep Guardiola has surprised many by opening up in a rarely seen way: emotionally. He is usually in the headlines for his work leading Manchester City, but this time, his perspective on mental health has drawn attention.
During his appearance on the Desmontadito podcast, Guardiola set aside his role as a coach to speak as a person. He has openly reflected on the weight of emotions, social pressure, and the importance of showing vulnerability.
Pep Guardiola has opened up completely
In his remarks, Guardiola has been critical of the imposed need to appear constantly happy, something that has spread through social media. "Nowadays, we all have to be happy."
"We have to appear on Instagram, on Twitter, showing how exceptional we are, how well we do everything... but it's a lie," he stated. His words point to a widespread discomfort that is disguised as well-being on digital platforms.
The Catalan coach argues that not only is it normal to feel sad or frustrated, but it is necessary to acknowledge it and not run away from it. "I'm sad, well, I'm sad, I know it will pass. I'm happy, but I know I will stop being happy," he commented.
Surprise after Pep Guardiola's latest words
In this context, he has made it clear that emotions are changeable and shouldn't be hidden. Guardiola emphasizes that this emotional roller coaster is especially evident in the world of sports, where the demands are constant.
"Sometimes, footballers are sad because we've lost, yes, you're sad, it's good that you are. Fight with it, live with it, and stay with it, knowing that your ability to act will allow you to change that mood," he reflected.
According to the coach, what matters is learning to live with those moments and not fight against what you feel. "Don't go against your mood, that's one of the keys. We're all the same in this, we all have the same fears and the same hopes."
To conclude, Guardiola sends a direct message: "Today, we have to show that we're exceptional... that's a lie. It's important to be honest with ourselves and with others, regarding how we feel."
With his words, Pep Guardiola not only breaks taboos within the world of sports. He also sends a necessary message for everyone: showing vulnerability is not a weakness, but an act of honesty and emotional strength.