Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has pleaded with the club's supporters to make even more noise for the team going forward - even when they are losing.
City have often faced criticism for a perceived lack on enthusiasm from their fan base, and they were met with similar accusations when the Citizens fell 1-0 down against Leicester City on Saturday.
Guardiola's men went on to win the game 3-1 but, speaking after the game (via the Daily Mail), the boss confessed that he wants to hear more from his supporters going forward.
"I had a feeling that always they were there when we played good but I want more when we struggle a little bit, like at 0-1," he said.
"The players deserve it for what they've done in this period. I need my fans. Mum and dad are always there in the bad moments with their kids, not [just] the good ones. We need them when the opponent is good and when we are struggling, to become a better team.
"I thought the spectators were incredible, but we played so good and when that happens our fans are always behind us."
This is by no means the first time that Guardiola has challenged fans to raise their voices. Back in April, he begged supporters to get behind the team as they pushed to reach the Champions League semi-final.
Much like the players, it seemed like the fans woke up after the Citizens netted an equaliser. Their performance after conceding was much better, but Guardiola added (via the club's official website) that is is unlikely to have any real impact on the title race.
“When we lose, I have to go home and it is a disaster,” he said. “When we play now we are going to chase Liverpool. Leicester so far have done better than us. Hopefully Leicester can play well against Liverpool.
"We will try. I think it is unrealistic to think we will chase them. We have to try and win our games, be there and secure qualification for the Champions League.
“You never know what could happen. When a team lose one game in their last 53, 54, I’m not optimistic to think they are going to lose four or five in ten or 11 games. I don’t think so, because they are an incredibly strong team. So, [we must] relax, try and play like today and we will see at the end what happens.”
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Source : 90min