Manchester City secured a 2-1 win over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu, yet Pep Guardiola stressed that the team must improve to challenge for the Champions League title. The coach welcomed the result but maintained that the current level will not carry them deep into the competition.
City’s comeback win brings a cautious message from Guardiola
Manchester City travelled to Madrid under pressure to recover from their recent league phase loss to Bayer Leverkusen. The team responded by overturning an early deficit with goals from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland. Despite the scoreline, Guardiola said the overall display fell short of what is needed in later stages.
Pep Guardiola on the touchline as Manchester City worked to recover from an early Real Madrid goal
He explained that City often performed better at the Bernabéu in past seasons yet left without a victory. This time the outcome favoured them, but he warned that results alone do not show whether a team is truly ready for what lies ahead. His assessment centred on the need for a stronger showing when the knockout rounds approach.
Guardiola outlines what must change for the months ahead
The manager said he expects improvement as the competition moves into February and March. He added that avoiding injuries will be crucial, as depth and rhythm often decide Champions League campaigns. He indicated that future trips to places like PSG, Anfield, and Arsenal will require more precision and control.
Guardiola credited his players for their effort and willingness to respond after falling behind. Yet he maintained that the overall pace of the game, especially in the early stages, exposed areas that need attention. He pointed to several moments where Real Madrid threatened on transitions after City lost possession.
Match started with Madrid pressure before City recovered
Real Madrid made the stronger start and created several early openings. Rodrygo converted one of those chances after a decisive move that put City on the back foot. The home side used the atmosphere and intensity to trouble Guardiola’s defence, especially in the first half-hour.
Rodrygo opened the scoring for Real Madrid before Manchester City responded with two quick goals
City steadied themselves as the half progressed and found their equaliser through O’Reilly. The midfielder reacted well to a loose ball and finished from close range. Minutes later, Haaland converted from the penalty spot to give City the lead before the interval. The visitors had more control afterward but never fully settled.
Xabi Alonso faces mounting questions after another defeat
The pressure surrounding Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso grew after the match. Local reports earlier stated that a loss might push him closer to dismissal. Real Madrid have struggled over recent weeks, winning only two of their previous eight matches in all competitions.
Alonso said he felt supported by his players despite the ongoing scrutiny. He pointed to the team’s strong start and said they carried out the plan during key stretches of the match. He also referenced the injuries affecting the squad and the effort his players showed until the final whistle.
Madrid players respond with effort but lack full control
Alonso described the match as demanding and said the squad maintained belief even as the game moved against them. He praised their commitment, saying the players continued to push in the second half. He added that there was nothing to reproach regarding their attitude.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso watches from the sideline as scrutiny around his position increases.
He also referred to the challenges created by several injuries throughout the squad. These absences limited rotation options and forced some players into extended roles. Alonso said the group continues to work with the intention of regaining consistency as the league phase progresses.
City rise in league phase but remain focused on improvements
The victory lifted Manchester City to fourth in the league phase standings. It places them in a stronger position after the setback against Leverkusen. Guardiola said the experience at the Bernabéu will benefit the squad as it prepares for the decisive months ahead.
The coach repeated that the team remains far from its best version and that the goal is to reach full strength when the Champions League moves into its elimination rounds. He expressed confidence that the players will reach a higher level once the schedule tightens.
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Tension remains high for Madrid despite spirited showing
Real Madrid left the pitch with more questions about their direction under Alonso. The team produced passages of quality and created chances, yet errors at key moments cost them the match. The coach said he remains sure that results will improve once the squad regains stability.
He reaffirmed his belief that the players are still competing for him, saying their performance reflected dedication even under pressure. He concluded that the group will continue working to recover form and move forward with confidence.
