Pep Guardiola is not only dealing with the intense pressure of the Champions League this season but also struggling with a persistent skin condition. Once again, he was seen with visible scratches on his forehead during Manchester City’s crucial match against Club Brugge.
Guardiola’s Frustration Grows After Club Brugge’s Goal
Guardiola entered the match knowing any slip-up could complicate City’s campaign in the tournament they won two seasons ago. But the early moments did not go as planned. He showed clear frustration on the touchline, especially when Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika stunned the Etihad Stadium by scoring for Brugge just before half-time.
City, despite having top stars like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden, looked off their usual pace in the first half. This only added to Guardiola’s tension, and he was seen repeatedly scratching his forehead.
As he returned to the bench, the irritation seemed to worsen, reminding fans of a similar incident against Feyenoord when he accidentally scratched his nose with his long fingernails.
City’s Comeback Does Not Calm Guardiola
The second half took a dramatic turn. Mateo Kovacic quickly equalised before Brugge defender Joel Ordonez scored an own goal, helping City take control of the match.
Even after taking the lead, Guardiola could not hide his frustration. The referee booked him for aggressively protesting a decision, and in another moment of anger, he kicked a water bottle towards the bench.
Reports Misunderstand Guardiola’s Condition
After City’s match against Feyenoord earlier in the season, some reports described Pep as a troubled coach. He was seen holding his scratched nose and looking highly emotional. Some linked this to growing stress, while others speculated about its effect on his mental state.
However, the truth later came out—Guardiola is not dealing with extreme stress but rather a chronic skin condition that causes constant itching.
Guardiola Confirms Skin Condition
After the match, Pep addressed the issue in an interview with The Sun. He said: “I have a skin problem that causes constant itching. I have been taking antihistamines for two or three years. This is not just about the Feyenoord game; it is something ongoing.”
He also admitted: “About the long nails, yes, I scratched my nose. But the other marks are because of the skin problem.”
Guardiola Faces Another Tough Test in the Champions League
Even after City’s 3-1 win, with substitute Savinho scoring late on, Pep has little time to relax. City could face either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the upcoming Champions League rounds, setting up another difficult challenge as they aim to defend their European title.
