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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has called for mental recuperation after his team's shock 4-3 Club World Cup exit to Al-Hilal, marking an abrupt end to their "incredible journey" in the revamped tournament.
  • Guardiola praises players' commitment despite "minimal margins" in thrilling extra-time defeat
  • Credits Al-Hilal's defensive resilience and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou's standout performance
  • Admits tactical vulnerability: "We were so open in transitions."
  • Expresses regret over missed chances in first-half dominance
  • Confirms focus shift to Premier League title defense after rare early tournament exit
The Reset Button: Even football's most meticulous architects need blueprints for recovery after their master plans crumble. For Guardiola's City, this unexpected exit becomes an unplanned intermission before England's relentless curtain rises again.

Sources: BBC Sport, Manchester City Press Pool