Guardiola Admits Man City Need Rebuild After Champions League Exit

Posted : 20 February 2025

Manchester City's Champions League campaign ended in disappointment as Real Madrid advanced to the last 16 with a 6-3 aggregate victory, fueled by a hat-trick from Kylian Mbappé. The damage had largely been done in the first leg, where City conceded two late goals in a 3-2 defeat at home. T

his marks the third time in four seasons that Real Madrid has eliminated City from the competition, but it is the first time under Pep Guardiola that the English champions have failed to progress beyond the group stage. The early exit highlighted City's struggles in the competition this season, as they barely made it out of the league phase, finishing 22nd in the newly expanded 36-team format.

Guardiola acknowledged that his team was not at its best, admitting to Spanish media that City had endured their "worst year" in the tournament. Injuries played a significant role in their difficulties, with key striker Erling Haaland remaining on the bench due to a knee issue and defender John Stones forced off within the first ten minutes.

Despite their challenges, City managed a consolation goal in the second leg when Nico Gonzalez converted after Omar Marmoush's free-kick struck the crossbar. However, that was not enough to turn the tide, as Madrid’s superior performance ensured their comfortable passage into the next round.

Looking ahead, Guardiola suggested that a squad rebuild was already underway, with City investing £170 million ($214 million) in January to acquire Marmoush, Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis. He emphasized that no era lasts forever and praised his squad for their past dominance, which includes six Premier League titles in seven years.

While City has consistently reached the latter stages of the Champions League in previous seasons, Guardiola admitted that this campaign exposed the need for reinforcements and adjustments within the squad.

Real Madrid has a history of winning the competition whenever they eliminate City, and Guardiola acknowledged that the current Madrid squad is the strongest he has encountered. He highlighted their ability to control possession, defend effectively both high up the pitch and in deeper positions, and launch rapid counterattacks. Guardiola concluded by congratulating Carlo Ancelotti’s team, acknowledging that they deserved their victory and were the superior side over the two legs.

Guardiola Admits Man City Need Rebuild After Champions League Exit

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