Pep Guardiola reveals City's headache in the Champions League

1 month ago 78

Pep Guardiola has named a club he is wary of facing in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
The decorated Manchester City manager admitted it was never easy to play against this team
Meanwhile, Pep and his charges remain one of the few sides in Europe yet to taste defeat this season

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has clarified which club he would prefer to avoid in this season's UEFA Champions League.

With three UCL titles under his belt, Guardiola deeply understands the challenges ahead, especially when determining the team that could threaten City's quest for European dominance.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is keen on avoiding one of his former clubs in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League.

After last season’s quarter-final exit at the hands of Real Madrid, who went on to lift the trophy, Guardiola's side is eager to reclaim the crown.

The new campaign, however, began on shaky ground, with a goalless draw against Inter Milan.

City quickly bounced back, though, with a commanding victory over Slovan Bratislava, reaffirming their intent to compete for the title.

The competition will only intensify as City prepares for their remaining group-stage fixtures against Sparta Prague, Sporting CP, Feyenoord, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, and Club Bruges.

Guardiola names the club City must avoid

Yet, when asked which team he would rather avoid in Europe's top competition, Guardiola named a former club.

"Good question. Barcelona, maybe," he said, as reported by Metro. "The affection I have for them destroys me. I was born in a small town nearby; it’s never easy to play against them."

Barcelona, now under the guidance of Hansi Flick, have started the 2024/25 season with significant momentum, winning all but two of their matches.

Despite an early setback in their Champions League opener against Monaco, they made a strong comeback and thrashed Young Boys 5-0, proving they remain a force to be reckoned with.

What's Guardiola's record vs Barcelona?

While Guardiola may be hesitant to face his former team, his record against Barça isn't unfavourable.

According to Transfermarkt, the City boss has faced the Catalan giants four times, with two victories and two losses, showcasing his tactical acumen when facing his old club.