I wasn’t brought to Man City to win the Champions League – Pep Guardiola

On the eve of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals between Manchester City and Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola reiterated that he wasn’t brought to the club to win Europe’s elite competition.

Guardiola has been at the helm at Manchester City for the past seven years winning five Premier League titles.

However, his Man City side which has broken a number of domestic records are yet to win a Champions League trophy.

The Citizens came closest in 2021 when they narrowly lost the final to fellow Premier League side Chelsea.

For many years, the biggest critique Guardiola has faced is his inability to replicate his domestic on the continent.

“I said when I signed the contract seven years ago, they didn’t tell me to win the Champions League. All the people said the reason why they brought me here with my staff was to do the best possible,” Guardiola said in the press conference before the game against Real Madrid.

“But of course, we cannot deny we have won all the titles except this one. Of course, we want it. It is another opportunity from two seasons ago when we lost the final against Chelsea, against Madrid the season before. Of course, we want it with all the desire.”

Manchester City are not only after the Champions League this season. They are just one win away from a sixth Premier League title in seven years and also in the FA Cup final.

Guardiola admits it is a dream come true to be competing in different competitions so deep into the season.

“People say we are close enough, I think we are far away.

“It’s a dream come true to be here. Nobody in the future can guarantee we will be here. Nobody can assure us. So once we are there, let’s go. With our people, I am pretty sure will do it.”

Manchester City welcomes Real Madrid at the Etihad on Wednesday for the second leg of the Champions League semi-finals with the game tied at 1-1.