Champions League
Pep Guardiola Believes Manchester City Can’t Dominate Real Madrid Again
As Manchester City gears up for their Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, manager Pep Guardiola & midfielder Rodri shared their perspectives on the upcoming challenge.
The stage is set for a compelling encounter between two European football powerhouses, each aiming to assert their dominance & secure a pivotal advantage in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Guardiola’s cautious optimism was evident as he addressed the media, acknowledging the formidable nature of their opponents. Reflecting on City’s dominant 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the previous season, Guardiola emphasized the impossibility of expecting a repeat performance, citing the adaptability and pride of the Spanish giants. “It’s difficult. Because beating Real Madrid two times the same way is impossible … because they learn. They have pride,” Guardiola remarked.
Furthermore, Guardiola highlighted the need for his team to approach the game with a balanced strategy, recognizing the danger posed by Real Madrid’s aggressive style and swift transitions. “At the same time, you can’t come here just to control the game. You have to try to hurt them, to punch them, to let them feel we are here to score a goal … we feel strong. We are incredibly confident,” he asserted, Rodri acknowledged the evolution of Real Madrid’s playing style & emphasized the necessity for City to adapt to the challenges posed by their opponents. “We know we’re going to face a different Real Madrid … they play differently. They control more of the game … we have to adapt ourselves,” Rodri explained.
Importantly, Rodri expressed confidence in City’s maturity and experience, drawing upon their past triumphs in the competition as a source of composure & resilience. “We are a more mature team, we have experience of winning this competition & we came here with a different mentality and composure I wish and hope the experience of winning the tournaments helps us do things right tomorrow,” he stated
