Pep Guardiola has told elite soccer players that they are the only ones who can force change in the face of a growing dispute over the number of games they are being asked to play.

Pep Guardiola has thrown support behind Rodri after the Manchester City midfielder said players were close to taking industrial action over the number of games being added to the calendar. Rodri, Aston Villa’s John McGinn and the Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson have expressed concern this week about the schedule.

Manchester City take on title rivals Arsenal on Sunday having had an extra day’s rest after the Gunners’ Thursday fixture in Europe.

Pep Guardiola has hinted he could yet stay at Manchester City following their Champions League draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday night. The Spaniard's side went into the showdown hoping to lay down a marker as they look to win the competition for a second time,