Champions League: Pep Guardiola's promise to Real Madrid

Europe 16 March 2026 at 12:26

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

17.03.26 FT Champions League

Manchester City

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Real Madrid

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Tomorrow, Tuesday, Manchester City will attempt a sensational comeback against Real Madrid. After being defeated 3-0 last Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu, the Citizens will need to deliver a flawless performance.

For this showdown, Pep Guardiola, whose tactical decisions have sparked much debate, will also need to step up. The manager is counting on his players to turn things around.

"If, after ten years, I still have to explain belief to our players, then we have a problem. I'm convinced we'll give it a try. Some players are new, it's not the same group, but this is an incredible opportunity. We have to be mentally strong, it lasts more than 90 minutes. I'm not worried about creating chances, we'll make them. It's not easy, but we're here, it's a football match. We have to play well. There's not much more to add." he said.

He added: "It's a golden opportunity to turn things around. There are very few messages to give at this point, I'm convinced, but I know we'll go for it. Whether we'll succeed, I have no idea (...) For example, in many games against Tottenham or Real Madrid, we've been able to score. We can do it, we can create chances and be present on many occasions. For me, it's easy to say: 'We have to score three goals in the first 20 minutes, perfect!' But that's not reality. The first leg result wasn't ideal. Bernardo (Silva) won the ball back three times and we didn't score. We need to take more risks, but if the win doesn't come, we have to keep attacking. Like against Aston Villa in the last match to win the Premier League with three goals in twelve minutes. There are so many details to consider. The match has to be perfect, down to the referee's decisions. I always keep good memories, even of defeats. It's painful and tough, but sometimes you don't always get what you want. If you look at the game against West Ham, we defended really well. It's not easy because Real Madrid have so much quality. We have to work hard. From my experience in the Champions League, we've always been able to create chances but we have to find the right balance."

Related teams and leagues

Manchester City

Real Madrid

Champions League