Pep Guardiola: "The Team Has Something Special" – Will Man City Show It Against Real Madrid?
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola believes his team has what it takes to overcome Real Madrid, but can they rise to the challenge at the Etihad?
Manchester City have not been at their best this season, but they still have a chance to make history. Pep Guardiola’s side remain in the quest for both the FA Cup and the UEFA Champions League. Their next big challenge is against Real Madrid, as they face the Spanish giants on Tuesday night at the Etihad Stadium in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
Although City have had some struggles this season, they have beaten Real Madrid before and know what it takes to win. Based on what Pep Guardiola and Ruben Dias said before the match, the team is determined to prove they are still one of the best.
Speaking ahead of the game, Guardiola encouraged his players to step up and show their true quality. The City boss remains confident in his team, despite some of their struggles this season.
“We are where we are, and I know that perfectly,” Guardiola said. “But this team has something special, and hopefully, tomorrow we can prove it. I fully trust my players because they have given us an incredible decade, winning many trophies and playing at a very high level. I know what we are capable of.”
Guardiola’s words are a reminder of how dominant City have been under his leadership. Now, he wants his players to find that same belief and confidence as they prepare for one of the biggest games of their season.
Ruben Dias also shared his thoughts before the match, admitting that this has been one of the toughest seasons since he joined Manchester City. However, he believes that even in difficult times, great things can still be achieved.
“This has maybe been the most difficult season since I have been here,” Dias said. “But I am a firm believer that in the toughest situations, you can still achieve something beautiful. We know it will be difficult, but we have to believe in what we have in the dressing room. With the right belief, we can do anything.”
One of Manchester City’s biggest issues this season has been their confidence. In previous years, they looked unbeatable, but at times this season, they have seemed to doubt themselves. This has been clear in the Champions League, where they have struggled in games they were expected to win.
Their performances against Feyenoord, Sporting CP, and PSG showed signs of weakness, and they even suffered a loss to Juventus. However, despite those struggles, City still managed to reach the knockout rounds. Now, they need to step up and perform at their best against Real Madrid.
This could be the perfect game for City to show their confidence and strength. A strong performance against Madrid could be exactly what they need to push forward for the rest of the season.
Pep Guardiola is aware of his players’ potential. Ruben Dias is also certain that the team is capable of greatness. But the most important thing is that the players themselves believe in their own abilities.
If Manchester City can find that belief again, they have the talent and experience to beat anyone—including Real Madrid. Tuesday night at the Etihad, we will see if they truly believe they can achieve something special this season.