As Manchester City gears up for a highly anticipated Champions League clash against Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium, Pep Guardiola has made it clear that there are no hard feelings towards Real Madrid over last year’s Ballon d’Or snub. The two teams, who have become regular foes in the knockout stages of the competition, are set to renew their rivalry in the play-off round.
Guardiola insists that Manchester City harbors no ill-feeling towards Real Madrid. “Absolutely not,” Guardiola said at a pre-match press conference. “I was happy for Rodri, but Vinicius made an extraordinary year as well.”
The upcoming match is the fifth time City has been paired with Real in a knockout tie during Guardiola’s tenure, and the fourth year in succession. Guardiola acknowledges the great rivalry that has developed between the two clubs but doesn’t consider it a classic yet. “In terms of the last decade, yes maybe, because it’s not normal to play the same rivals all the time,” he said. “But, in terms of the history of the Champions League, at the end, we cannot compare, to be honest.”
Guardiola also recognizes the challenge that Real Madrid poses, particularly with their formidable attacking lineup of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior. “It’s impossible for 90 minutes, 180 minutes or 200 minutes – it depends on extra time – to control these four players,” he admitted. “Everybody knows they are exceptional.”
As the two teams prepare to face off, Guardiola remains optimistic and calm, trusting in his players’ ability to rise to the occasion. “We deserve to be where we are. The draw is the draw and we accept the challenge.”
The stage is set for an exciting clash between two of Europe’s finest sides, with Guardiola’s tactical acumen pitted against Carlo Ancelotti’s strategic responses. Fans can expect a match brimming with tactical nuance and individual brilliance, as both teams vie for a place in the Round of 16.
Manchester City performance and stats
Manchester City is currently 22nd in the Champions League with 11 points.
In the last 8 games, it has won 3 times, drew twice, and lost 3 times. In its last match, Manchester City won 3-1 against Club Brugge.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 18 goals and conceding 14.
Manchester City will play the next match in Champions League against Real Madrid on Tuesday 11th of February in Manchester. The prediction is Manchester City winning the match.
