Pep Guardiola has challenged his "Manchester City" players to show full belief before their Champions League second leg against "Real Madrid", saying anyone who does not believe in a comeback should "stay at home". The City manager made the comments as his side prepare to try to overturn a 3-0 first-leg defeat. Reports Goal.com.
"Manchester City" head into the match under pressure after an uneven run of form. They have won only once in their last four games in all competitions, and their recent performances have raised concerns at both ends of the pitch. Guardiola made it clear that mentality will be just as important as tactics if his team are to produce something special at the Etihad Stadium.
The numbers are not in City’s favor. "Real Madrid" have won three of their last four Champions League meetings with the English side, and Guardiola has not managed to recover from a first-leg knockout defeat in his last five such attempts. Even so, the Spaniard insisted his team must keep fighting and approach the tie without fear.
The result could shape the rest of City’s season. With only a handful of domestic matches left and a Carabao Cup final against "Arsenal" coming on Sunday, Guardiola will want a strong response from his players, whether or not they can complete a remarkable European comeback.
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