Guardiola Shifts Focus to Champions League After Derby Loss

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shifted his team’s focus to the Champions League following their recent 2-0 defeat to Manchester United. Speaking on January 19, 2024, in Bodo, Norway, Guardiola acknowledged that his side needs to move forward as they prepare for a crucial match against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League.

Guardiola was candid about the derby loss, stating, “The better team won,” and emphasized that the focus is now solely on their Champions League aspirations. He noted that they have not discussed the United match since their return from Manchester and are concentrating on achieving a top-eight finish in the tournament. “I think we didn’t talk one word about United. I didn’t review the game but I know right now, and even while watching the game at United, they were better. When a team is better, you just have to congratulate them, improve, and move on,” he said.

Currently, City sits fourth in the Champions League standings with 13 points. A victory against Bodo/Glimt would strengthen their position and bring them closer to qualifying automatically for the knockout stages. Guardiola reflected on last season’s challenges, where City struggled at a similar phase, stating, “In that game in Paris, we were 2-0 up, in that moment PSG were out of the competition, then we lost 4-2 and after, unbelievably, they won the Champions League deservedly.”

Preparing for the match against Bodo/Glimt has required adjustments due to the artificial turf at the Aspmyra Stadium. Guardiola mentioned the importance of adapting to the playing conditions, saying, “Of course it’s different. Never, since I am here at Manchester, have I ever trained in the stadium before. But they have to see how the ball bounces, how it is with the short passes, long passes, this kind of stuff.”

In terms of player fitness, midfielder Phil Foden sustained a hand injury during the derby but will be available for selection. Guardiola confirmed that Foden has “some broken bones” but will wear protective gear for the match.

Additionally, Guardiola discussed the recent signing of Marc Guehi, a defender who joined from Crystal Palace. This acquisition is particularly timely given the injury crisis affecting their defensive lineup, which currently includes sidelined players such as Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones. “He is a top central defender. He has the perfect age to play for many years and can play on the right or left,” Guardiola stated, expressing gratitude to the club for securing Guehi’s services.

As Manchester City looks to bounce back in the Champions League, the commitment to improvement and adaptation remains at the forefront of Guardiola’s strategy. The upcoming match against Bodo/Glimt presents a vital opportunity for the club to solidify their standing and move closer to their goal of progression in the tournament.