Grass is better – Guardiola concerned over Young Boys pitch ahead of UCL clash

Pep Guardiola has exiressed concerns about playing on Young Boys’ artificial pitch ahead of Champions League match in Bern.

The plastic surface has previously attracted criticism from teams, including Manchester United, who complained about it in 2018 and 2021.

Presently, the Manchester City manager has also voiced his apprehension about his players picking up injuries on the synthetic field, emphasizing his preference for natural grass.

“Grass is better… 99.9 percent of the teams who play at a high level play on grass, otherwise UEFA and FIFA would decide to play on artificial pitches. It’s common sense,” Guardiola said.

He has also taken an unusual routine, forcing his team to train in Bern, a move aimed at helping the players adapt to the pitch.

He acknowledged that teams playing on such surface in the Champions League have to adjust, and that City will not be the first to face the situation.

However, Guardiola believes that if UEFA permits games to be played on such pitches, it is because they are in good condition.

He also addressed the status of some of his players, especially Jack Grealish, who is pushing for a starting role.

The manager expressed confidence in Grealish’s quality but noted the need for him to regain rhythm after returning from injury.