Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has acknowledged Real Madrid’s ability to thrive under pressure as both sides prepare for a high-stakes Champions League playoff clash on Tuesday. With key injuries hampering Real’s defense, Guardiola remains cautious, knowing Los Blancos have a history of delivering their best in tough situations.
Neither Real nor City secured automatic progression to the last 16, finishing 11th and 22nd, respectively, in the league-phase standings. Now, the two European giants will meet in a two-legged playoff to keep their Champions League hopes alive. This marks their fourth consecutive year facing off in the competition.
La Liga leaders Real Madrid will travel to the Etihad without several first-choice defenders, including Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, and David Alaba. Despite these setbacks, Guardiola emphasized Madrid’s consistency and ability to adapt.
“I think both teams have had problems in terms of injuries during the season. Madrid handled it much better than us because they are still top of the league and fighting against Atlético Madrid,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Monday.
“That shows again the consistency they have. At the end, they are a huge competitor. We know it. We have faced it many times, and in tough moments, they bring out the best in themselves. We know it. Of course, we have to make two good games to go through.”
Real Madrid have strengthened their attack since last season, with Kylian Mbappé now joining forces with Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Jr. Guardiola admitted that stopping them completely would be nearly impossible.
“They are exceptional,” he said. “How they combine, the runners, the ability one-against-one, how they keep the ball, all four are exceptional. Everybody knows it. You just have to reduce their involvement as much as possible, knowing that it’s going to happen. Accept it.”
Manchester City have faced a difficult domestic campaign and currently sit fifth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 15 points. Their hopes of winning a record-extending fifth consecutive league title appear slim.
Defender Rúben Dias admitted this has been his most challenging season at City but remains hopeful about their Champions League prospects.
“I’m a firm believer that even in the most difficult scenario, you can still do something and achieve something beautiful in the end,” Dias said.
“Right now, we are still in that position. Obviously, we know how difficult our opposition is and how difficult our way will be to get there. But it’s a question of believing in what we have in the dressing room. We have loads of talent. We just have to use it in the right way. With the right belief, we are able to do anything.”
As City and Madrid prepare for another chapter in their recent rivalry, the stage is set for a thrilling battle at the Etihad. With both teams desperate to stay in the competition, Tuesday’s encounter could prove decisive in shaping their seasons.
