Guardiola Admits to Mind Games Ahead of City’s Real Madrid Showdown
Pep Guardiola has confessed to playing mind games by downplaying Manchester City’s chances ahead of their Champions League second-leg clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Despite trailing 3-2 after a late collapse in the first leg at the Etihad, Guardiola remains optimistic about his team’s chances of progressing.
Guardiola’s “1% Chance” Admission
On Tuesday, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti joked that not even Guardiola believed his earlier “one percent chance” remark. When asked about it, the City manager admitted:
“I lied about the one percent chance. For the first time, I lied,” Guardiola said with a grin.
“It’s not the best result, but we can do it. Carlo won’t have to tell me anything before the game.”
While many expect Madrid to advance, Guardiola was boosted by the return of Erling Haaland to training. The Norwegian striker limped off in City’s 4-0 win over Newcastle but seems ready to feature.
Key Players Return for City
In addition to Haaland, City welcomed back Rúben Dias, Nathan Aké, and Jack Grealish to training after they missed the Newcastle match. However, Guardiola remained tight-lipped on their availability.
“They travelled. We will see tomorrow, but it is good news they are here,” he said.
Tough Task at the Bernabéu
Guardiola knows firsthand the challenges of playing at the Bernabéu, calling it a difficult place but one filled with “incredible memories”—some good, some bad.
He emphasized the need for City to be brave and produce an almost perfect performance to stand a chance.
“You have to play with courage, be yourself. It has to be an almost perfect game.”
Bernardo Silva: “The Dark Place is Behind Us”
City midfielder Bernardo Silva reflected on the team’s recent struggles, referencing a 4-1 loss to Sporting Lisbon earlier in the tournament.
“When you’re so successful for seven or eight seasons and suddenly you lose a few games, it feels strange. You have a bad few months, and we don’t accept it.”
However, he believes City are moving past their struggles.
“I think we’re in a better moment now. Still not perfect, but not in the same dark place anymore.”
Match Details
- Fixture: Real Madrid vs. Manchester City
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu
- Kick-off: 8 PM (UK time)
- Broadcast: TNT Sports
City face a huge test in Madrid. Can Guardiola’s men turn the tie around and keep their Champions League dream alive?
