Guardiola says he wants more from Man City despite win against Real Madrid in the Champions League at Bernabeu.
‘That level is not enough’: Guardiola wants more despite City win in Madrid.
On Wednesday night, Pep Guardiola was able to celebrate a 2-1 Champions League victory over Real Madrid, which is a rare outcome. However, the manager of Manchester City made it clear that in order for his team to replicate their 2023 victory in the competition, they would need to perform better in the knockout stages.
It was a night when Xabi Alonso, the manager of Real Madrid, who is vying for this position, felt more pressure as his team’s dismal performance persisted. Just two of their last eight games in all competitions have been victories.
Alonso’s advantage was that Madrid put up a fight and played some excellent football, taking the lead thanks to a goal from Rodrygo. However, a goal from Nico O’Reilly and a penalty from Erling Haaland gave City the lead before halftime.
“This will be a good lesson for the future because that level is not quite enough,” Guardiola said. “I’ve been here [at the Bernabéu] many times in the last five years and we have played much better than today and not won. This is the reality. But yeah, I will take it. The reality is that in the latter stages, you have to do better.
“Don’t misunderstand me. Winning at the Bernabéu is a big, big task. Especially in this competition. But at the same time, come February and March … the level required must be better. We will work on it. It’s not enough today. When we go to PSG, Anfield, Arsenal, we have to do better – but knowing the players we will be better.”
Guardiola was asked whether he believed his team would be able to grow into the competition, peaking when it mattered in the knockout stages. “That will happen, 100% for sure – as long as there are no injuries,” he said.