Pep Guardiola arrived late to the press conference ahead of Manchester City‘s clash with Real Madrid, where he faced questions from both English and Spanish journalists at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Guardiola’s late arrival did not dampen the anticipation surrounding the match, particularly given the ongoing injury woes at Real Madrid. The Spaniards are grappling with several key players sidelined, raising questions about their vulnerability as they prepare to face a formidable City side. In this tense atmosphere, Guardiola provided insights into his thoughts on Madrid, his former assistant Xabi Alonso, and the broader European football landscape.
On Real Madrid’s Vulnerability
When questioned about opinions suggesting that Real Madrid is currently vulnerable and easier to defeat, Guardiola firmly disagreed. “That’s someone’s opinion; I don’t share it,” he stated, emphasizing the challenge that any team faces when going up against the Spanish giants. The Manchester City coach acknowledged the weight of history and prestige that comes with playing at the Bernabéu, a venue known for its intense atmosphere.
Empathy for Xabi Alonso
Guardiola expressed empathy for Xabi Alonso, who is navigating his first managerial role at Bayer Leverkusen after their time together at Barcelona. “Of course, we worked together for two and a half years; it was incredible,” he recalled. However, he also recognized the immense pressure associated with managing top clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid. “The season is tough; everything relies on winning,” Guardiola noted, reflecting on his own experiences during challenging times last season.
The Dynamics of Power in Football
A journalist raised the question of whether players today wield more power than before. Guardiola responded with caution, stating that he was unaware of any changes in dynamics within teams. “It depends on how much power the board decides to give to either the coach or the players,” he remarked, highlighting the complexities of team hierarchies in modern football.
Comparing Current Matches to Last Season
Guardiola also drew comparisons between this season’s matches and those from last year. He noted that facing Madrid in the group stage is vastly different from meeting them in a knockout round. “Last season we faced them despite numerous injuries; it was a transitional period for us,” he explained. This time around, he feels more confident with a squad capable of making decisive contributions on the pitch.
The discussion turned to John Stones’ fitness, with Guardiola admitting uncertainty regarding his availability for the match against Real Madrid. As for Alonso’s situation at Bayer Leverkusen, Guardiola expressed respect for his former colleague but refrained from speculating on his future.
As discussions shifted to European competition, Guardiola pointed out that while English clubs have had success recently, it is crucial to maintain form throughout the season to perform well in knockout stages. He remarked that “the last champion was PSG, who didn’t even finish in the top eight,” underscoring how unpredictable football can be.
In closing, Guardiola reflected on what makes Real Madrid unique compared to other teams. “No team can compete with mine; my teams are exceptional,” he quipped with a smile. He emphasized that progress is essential throughout the season, acknowledging that challenges such as injuries can impact performance. The upcoming match is not just another game; it’s an opportunity for both sides to prove themselves on one of Europe’s grandest stages.
The tension mounts as City prepares for this high-stakes encounter at the Bernabéu. With both teams eager to assert their dominance in European football, fans can expect an electrifying clash filled with drama and intensity.
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