Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has expressed concerns over his team’s starting line-up ahead of their UEFA Champions League play-off first-leg clash against Real Madrid on Tuesday, 9am news reports.
City, the reigning Premier League champions, have struggled with injuries this season, with key players like Rodri and Jeremy Doku sidelined. Speaking at his press conference on Monday, Guardiola admitted that the squad situation is giving him a selection headache.
“We are where we are, and I know perfectly well what we have,” Guardiola said. “The team has something special, and hopefully, we can prove it tomorrow. I have my game plan, but I still have doubts about the selection due to injuries.”
Despite the uncertainties, Guardiola remained optimistic:
“I am always calm and optimistic. We will see what happens. I’m sure the players are looking forward to the game, and it is always an honour to play in the Champions League. Hopefully, our fans can help us.”
The Spanish manager acknowledged City’s underwhelming group stage performances, which landed them in the play-offs.
“In the group stage or knockout rounds, it is always difficult against Real Madrid. We did not perform well in the group stage, so we deserve to be here. The draw is the draw, and we accept the challenge,” Guardiola admitted.
As Guardiola prepares to host Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium, all eyes will be on Guardiola’s tactical decisions and how he manages his squad amid the injury crisis.
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