Man City boss Pep Guardiola – ‘Winning at Santiago Bernabeu always makes us happy’ | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola left the Santiago Bernabeu with yet another victory added to his record.

Yet, the post-match conversation shifted away from the 2–1 scoreline and towards the refereeing decisions that dominated Real Madrid’s complaints. 

The narrow result left Xabi Alonso’s side frustrated, particularly after appeals for a penalty they felt should have changed the course of the match.

Guardiola, however, countered that narrative immediately when asked about Madrid’s claims. 

He pointed out that Real Madrid were fortunate to finish the match with 11 players.

“It was a penalty, and I think he should have been sent off afterwards.”

His remark referred to Antonio Rudiger, whose challenge sparked controversy throughout the stadium.

The City boss then turned his attention to how the decision unfolded. Guardiola expressed surprise that the referee did not make the call instantly. 

“The penalty obviously had to be reviewed by VAR because otherwise the referees don’t have the guts to call it.”

Winning at Santiago Bernabeu

Despite the debate surrounding the officiating, Guardiola made it clear that he valued the result, even if the performance wasn’t City’s finest. 

Speaking about the significance of the win at the venue, he noted,

Pep Guardiola expressed his delight after beating Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“Winning at the Bernabéu and getting into the top eight is important. We’ve played better many other times and haven’t won. 

“Before the goal we scored, they were playing better. I can tell you many stories of how Madrid has scored without playing well. Today it happened to us.”

Guardiola also briefly analysed the match dynamic, praising Real Madrid’s late push and singling out one player in particular. 

“They always push hard. They just put a lot of players up front and play faster. 

“In the first half, they ran more. I told Rodrygo that he’s very good, that he’s a player of another level.”

History against Real Madrid

When asked to reflect on his personal history at the Bernabeu, the City coach allowed himself a moment of nostalgia. He replied, 

“My first victory at the Bernabeu was 2-6. And it’s clear that it’s different from the other victories. One was to win La Liga, and this one was to go through to the next round.”

Finally, Guardiola emphasised, “Winning here always makes us happy, especially in terms of points. It’s in our hands to win and finish in the top 8.”

Source: SPORT