Pep Guardiola has admitted that Manchester City still harbors apprehensions about facing Europe’s top teams in the Champions League.
However, after witnessing his team breeze into the quarterfinals for the seventh consecutive season, Guardiola issued a cautionary message to teams like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, urging them to regard City with trepidation as well.
Replicating their 3-1 away victory from FC Copenhagen last month, City secured a 6-2 overall victory at the Etihad on Wednesday, but Guardiola rejected the notion that the tie was straightforward.
While acknowledging that advancing to the quarterfinals as the reigning champions was achieved relatively easily, Guardiola admitted he would be wary if City were drawn against Real Madrid, PSG, or Bayern in Friday’s final eight draw.
He emphasized the importance of considering Bayern Munich’s illustrious history and numerous Champions League titles before facing them, stating, “We are afraid of them all, but we also respect them.”
Guardiola highlighted City’s track record in Europe, pointing out their previous triumphs over Bayern and Real, which demonstrate their readiness for the quarterfinals.
He stressed the challenges of each stage of the competition, dismissing the notion that City’s progression against Copenhagen was simple. Guardiola emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and internal awareness of the team’s capabilities, despite external perceptions of ease.
While acknowledging the intricacies of the competition and the need for time and patience, Guardiola expressed confidence in City’s ability to compete at the highest level.
He emphasized the team’s reliability in Europe and the respect they have for their opponents, but also conveyed the message that City should be regarded as formidable opponents by their rivals.
