Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has described their upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid as a “derby,” given how frequently the two sides have met in recent seasons.
City and Madrid will face off for the fourth straight year in the knockout stages, with the first leg set for February 11 or 12 in England before the return fixture in Spain a week later.
Guardiola admitted the draw was tough but not unexpected. “It feels like a derby now, four years in a row playing them. Could the draw have been kinder? Yes. But Bayern Munich would also have been difficult. Real Madrid is always a challenge,” he said on Friday.
Fixture Congestion Concerns
The City boss is also worried about the demanding schedule ahead. His team faces Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, followed by key league matches against Newcastle and Liverpool, plus an FA Cup game at Leyton Orient.
Unlike other European leagues that adjust fixtures to support teams in the Champions League, the Premier League keeps its packed schedule. Guardiola voiced his frustration: “For years, managers like Ferguson, Mourinho, and Wenger have raised this issue, but nothing changes. Broadcasters decide the schedule, not me.”
Despite the challenges, Guardiola insisted his team will push forward. “We’ve won trebles under this schedule. If you don’t like it, don’t manage Manchester City,” he added.
City’s Struggles Without Rodri
City’s chances could improve if key midfielder Rodri returns. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner suffered a cruciate ligament injury in September and was initially ruled out for the season. However, he is making good progress and hopes to return before the campaign ends.
“He’s positive, but we have to be careful. ACL injuries take time. Rushing could lead to setbacks next season,” Guardiola explained.
Madrid knocked City out in last season’s quarter-finals, but City got their revenge in 2022/23, defeating them in the semi-finals before winning their first Champions League title. This year, Guardiola’s side will hope to come out on top again.
(Vanguard)
