Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has playfully dismissed criticism of the club’s January business despite a hundred million pound outlay.
City were the biggest spenders of the winter window, securing the signatures of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi to bolster their squad for the title run-in.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Guardiola poked fun at those highlighting his club’s vast resources, jokingly claiming he was “grumpy” that the board did not spend even more.
He pointed out that while City’s gross spending is high, several Premier League rivals have had a higher net spend over the last five-year period.
The Catalan coach emphasised that sustained success requires continuous investment, noting that six other teams have outspent City recently.
Despite the heavy investment, City find themselves seven points behind leaders Arsenal following a frustrating 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
Guardiola is now tasked with integrating his new arrivals quickly as the team prepares for a demanding February schedule.
The manager’s humorous remarks suggest a defiant stance against those questioning the financial advantages enjoyed by the reigning champions.