Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that their upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid will be a formidable challenge.
The two European powerhouses were paired together in the knockout play-offs, with City hosting the first leg at the Etihad on February 11 or 12, and the return leg scheduled for February 18 or 19 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Guardiola admitted, “Madrid is extremely difficult. We know that. It’s tough playing against Real.”
He also highlighted the challenges of City’s packed February schedule, which includes Premier League matches against Arsenal, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Tottenham, in addition to the Champions League double-header against Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, there is speculation about the potential inclusion of Rodri in City’s Champions League squad for the second half of the season.
Rodri is currently recovering from an injury in Madrid and has returned to Manchester for further rehabilitation.
Guardiola cautioned against rushing Rodri’s return, emphasizing the importance of a full recovery to avoid setbacks.