Pep Guardiola admits harsh reality after Real Madrid defeat – ‘It was impossible’ | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola did not need many words to sum up the night, as Manchester City’s Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid left the City manager visibly frustrated.

Speaking after the 1-2 defeat in the second leg, Guardiola’s tone was that of frustration rather than anger. 

When asked about the sending-off of Bernardo Silva, a moment that effectively ended any realistic comeback hopes, he chose not to dwell on it.

“The referee called it, didn’t he? Well, that’s that.”

He then put into perspective just how damaging that moment was in the context of the tie, especially given Real Madrid’s dominance across both legs.

“Ten against nine, with them leading 4-0, it was impossible.”

Wanted a fair contest

The red card not only altered the dynamics of the match but also removed any chance of a contest in Guardiola’s eyes. 

He made it clear that what disappointed him most was not just the defeat, but the inability to see the game unfold under equal conditions.

“It’s a shame we couldn’t play it 11 vs. 11, especially with the goal; that’s all we have left. 

Guardiola was understandably frustrated. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“I congratulate Madrid; the first leg decided the tie. I would have liked to play eleven against eleven.”

Praise for Arbeloa

Despite the disappointment, Guardiola also took a moment to acknowledge the work of Real Madrid’s manager, Alvaro Arbeloa. 

The Spaniard, still early in his managerial journey, has quickly made an impression and Guardiola did not hold back in his assessment.

“Good—I liked him. He’s made a great start, linking up well with his teammates and showing a lot of quality. 

“He’s made a very good impression; I predict a long career for him.”

Real Madrid have often been seen as his biggest obstacle in Europe, especially for City, but Guardiola mentioned a different name.

“My biggest challenge has been Klopp. You were here in Spain and didn’t realise what that was like. 

“To play so many times against Madrid, with the generation we had, we were more than a match for them. 

“We’ve both won; statistically, we’ve been on par. They’ve knocked us out more often, but given how we played, I think they know it too,” he concluded.

Source: AS