Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, said it's “time to rest” and focus on the upcoming season after his side was knocked out of the FIFA Club World Cup in the Round of 16 by Al Hilal.

“It was a tough game. We let them create too many chances on the break. It’s a shame—we were in a good position. But I can’t thank the players and staff enough. They gave it everything,” Guardiola said during the post-match press conference at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando.

Giving credit where it’s due

A brace from Marcos Leonardo and goals by Malcom—formerly of Barcelona—and Kalidou Koulibaly sealed a huge win for Al Hilal, sending the reigning UEFA Champions League winners packing. Despite cruising through the group stage, City bowed out of the tournament earlier than expected.

“I felt the team was in a good place. But now, we go home. It’s time to rest, and we’ll focus on the new season after that,” added the Spanish coach.

Outplayed, not surprised

“They didn’t surprise me,” Guardiola said about Al Hilal. “They have quick players, stayed compact, defended well, and ran more than we did.”

He also admitted frustration at missed chances: “We created a lot but didn’t finish. It hurts to leave the tournament this early, especially without learning more from it.”