Manchester City secured their place in the Champions League play-offs after a chaotic campaign, capping it off with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Club Bruges.
Trailing 1-0 at halftime and facing potential elimination, Pep Guardiola’s side managed to turn things around, much to the relief of their fans and manager. However, the emotional toll was evident as Guardiola, who has been through a turbulent period both on and off the pitch, once again appeared with facial injuries—self-inflicted due to frustration during the match, according to The Sun.
Despite the qualification, Guardiola was brutally honest about City’s chances in the competition. Speaking to Canal+, he admitted, “At the moment, we are not favorites to win. Madrid and Bayern have more experience than us.”
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While expressing hope that his squad will improve before the knockout rounds, he acknowledged the tough road ahead. “If we had to play tomorrow, it would be difficult, but in two weeks, who knows?” This rare moment of doubt from the Spanish tactician suggests that City still have a lot to prove if they want to reclaim European glory.