Man City vs Real Madrid: Pep Guardiola issues warning about Mbappé

Pep Guardiola sends a warning regarding Mbappé

Europe 16 March 2026 at 10:24

This Monday, Kylian Mbappé returned to the Real Madrid squad for the Champions League round of 16 second leg against Manchester City. Pep Guardiola has a message for his players regarding the Frenchman's comeback.

Kylian Mbappé rejoins his teammates after suffering a knee injury in recent weeks. Still, there’s no guarantee he’ll play tomorrow night at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16.

However, his presence is far from good news for the English side. Asked about Mbappé at the pre-match press conference, Pep Guardiola was succinct. "If Mbappé is back, it’s better for them. I don’t know if he’ll play or not. Many said Real Madrid was nothing without Mbappé, Bellingham, and Rodrygo, and they beat us 3-0. We have to be ready to create a positive environment so everyone believes it’s possible." said the Spaniard.

🚨 Pep Guardiola: "Kylian Mbappé? We'll see after 5 minutes. If Mbappé comes back, it's better for them. Now, we have to see, if he plays or not."

"There really isn't much more left to say. It's a perfect game to turn the tie around. I feel and I know that we are going to try." pic.twitter.com/sVih0IcJzt
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) March 16, 2026