Coach Pep Guardiola was proud when Man City crushed Luton 5-1 in round 33 of the Premier League and had the chance to win the treble like last season.
"We spoke to the players about how great it is to be back here. We spoke before the game and said it was an honour to be back at the top of the table," Guardiola said after the win over Luton.
The win over Luton helped Man City return to the top of the Premier League table for the first time since November 2023. The Manchester club is now two points ahead of Arsenal and Liverpool, but has played one game more.
Guardiola believes that Man City playing first and winning will not affect the mentality of the two competitors. The Spanish coach emphasized that Man City must win, instead of caring about the results of Arsenal or Liverpool. "Let's try every match," he said. "Arsenal and Liverpool know that if they drop points, they have no chance. But I believe they will both win tomorrow. The only way is for Man City to win to put pressure."
Coach Pep Guardiola celebrates with De Bruyne in Man City's 5-1 win over Luton Town in round 33 of the Premier League on April 13. Photo: Reuters
The 53-year-old coach is also proud that Man City have the opportunity to repeat last season's historic treble. The Manchester club will face Real in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at the Etihad Stadium on April 17, then play Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals on April 20. "It's a privilege to be here. Imagine not having the chance to compete for the Premier League title or any other tournament," Guardiola said.
At the Etihad Stadium on April 13, Man City dominated and won 5-1 thanks to Mateo Kovacic, Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, Josko Gvardiol and an own kick from Hashioka Daiki. But Guardiola said the result did not reflect the game and Man City only relieved the pressure after Kovacic doubled the gap in the 64th minute. "We created chances and did not let the opponent have many shots. But how many times in world football have we seen a better team not win? Too many," he said.
It was the first time Man City won in the Premier League without Rodri starting since October 2022. "Rodri needs a rest and will rest against Real. Come on, I'm joking," Guardiola joked, revealing that Kyle Walker and Nathan Ake asked to be on the bench and John Stones had no problems despite not being on the registration list.
Guardiola also called on fans to fill the Etihad Stadium to motivate Man City in the rematch against Real on April 17. "It's difficult, but let's try to win with the home fans," said the Spanish coach. "No matter what happens, we will give everything, not a single minute that we don't give. What we have to do is be humble and steady. We want to reach the semi-finals and get what we want to feel from the audience."
Hong Duy
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