After Manchester City was eliminated from the Champions League by Real Madrid, manager Pep Guardiola remarked that “nothing is eternal.”
The city has experienced significant achievements under Guardiola’s leadership, amassing an impressive collection of trophies, including six Premier League titles and the European Cup in 2023.
They have faced the most challenging campaign of his tenure this season. They exited the domestic title race due to an injury crisis and are now bowing out of Europe following Wednesday’s defeat in Madrid.
“Nothing is eternal,” Guardiola remarked. “Our performance has been remarkable, and we must focus on improving gradually from this point forward.” We achieved remarkable feats in the past, but that is no longer the case.
“With 13 matches remaining in the Premier League, our goal is to secure a position in the top four or five to qualify for the Champions League once more.”
Following a close defeat in the first leg of their knockout play-off tie, where they lost 3-2 at Etihad Stadium, City struggled significantly in Madrid. Kylian Mbappe‘s hat-trick propelled the hosts to a 3-1 victory on the night, allowing them to advance with a 6-3 aggregate score.
“The movement from Mbappe posed significant challenges for our defence, making it increasingly difficult,” Guardiola remarked.
The most deserving team emerged victorious in the competition. Their performance surpassed expectations. Acknowledging the current situation and progressing from there is essential.
City striker Erling Haaland was not fully fit because of injury and was named on the substitutes’ bench.
The Norway international was absent from the warm-up and remained on the bench, even as his team faced a deficit.
“According to the images we have reviewed, he appears to be fine; however, he experienced discomfort while walking.” He expressed, “I am not ready; I don’t feel good.”
