“Guardiola Warns Man City: Champions League Victory Still a Long Way Off”

Champions League
Guardiola: Champions League victory for Man City still a long way off

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a warning to his players ahead of the Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid.

“People say we’re close. I think we’re still far away,” said Guardiola. “The games that are coming up now are the toughest.” The first leg in Madrid ended 1-1.

When asked about a favorite for the title in the premier class, the coach reacted cautiously. “Hopefully the team that deserves the title wins.” The 52-year-old, who can take his side to the Premier League championship next weekend, admitted the Cityzens are particularly keen on the Champions League trophy.

“Of course we really want the title”

“Of course we cannot deny that we have won all the titles except for this one. Of course we want that,” said Guardiola. “It’s the next chance after we lost the final to Chelsea two years ago and to Madrid last year (the semi-final). Of course we definitely want the title.”

However, the coach does not see an obligation to win the title for the rich club owners from Abu Dhabi. “When I signed the contract here seven years ago, they didn’t tell me that I had to win the Champions League,” the coach clarified. He was brought in to do his best with the team. The same applies to the players. “The players don’t owe us anything because they have given everything in the past.”

dpa