Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola tried to remain optimistic after a convincing 0-3 defeat by Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16, saying his side still believe in a turnaround despite the difficult situation.
Now it’s getting harder, and in our heads, but we will be ready. We will try with the help of our fans in return. We agree that we need to be more active in the endgame and we will try to fix thatGuardiola told reporters.
The Spanish strategist, who during his career met 29 times with Real Madrid and recorded 14 victories in the process, can at least find some consolation in the fact that a more difficult defeat was avoided, after Gianluigi Donnarumma saved the penalty kick a little more than half an hour before the end of the match.
I didn’t feel powerless, added Guardiola, showing his usual determination despite his team’s problems.
On the other hand, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa had reason to be happy after his side’s performance brought much-needed relief to a season full of ups and downs.
The former Real player and two-time Champions League winner, who took over the team in January after the departure of Xabi Alonso, achieved a number of good results, although the season was also marked by unexpected defeats against Osasuna and Getafe.
He was the hero of the evening Federico Valverdewho scored as many goals in the first half as in his previous 75 Champions League appearances combined.
I don’t know if he’ll end up hating me because I kept bothering him trying to explain how important he is to the teamsaid Arbeloa with a smile.
(Hina | Photo: Manchester City)
