After their 6-3 aggregate defeat to Real Madrid in the playoffs, Guardiola acknowledged Real Madrid as a strong contender, emphasizing their quality and experience in the competition. He also mentioned Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as teams with the potential to challenge for the Champions League trophy. Guardiola highlighted that Real Madrid is always a favorite, but other teams are performing well. He specifically noted Liverpool’s strong season, Barcelona’s impressive form, and PSG’s progress under his friend Luis Enrique.
Guardiola admitted that Real Madrid deserved their victory, acknowledging that his team was not at their best this season. He pointed out Real Madrid’s ability to control possession, their dynamic play, speed, and effective pressing. Guardiola stressed the importance of accepting defeat and focusing on the remaining games of the season.
In the match against Manchester City, Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick in the second leg. Guardiola said that Madrid is capable of having long possessions, of defending, and of running.