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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said that his team have only 1% chance of winning against the defending champions Real Madrid in the playoff round’s second clash on February 20. Both sides met each other at the iconic Etihad Stadium on February 12 where Madrid clinched a 3-2 win riding on the brilliance of Kylian Mbappe, Brahim Diaz, and Jude Bellingham. The defeat left an impact on Guardiola, following which he has acknowledged that his players have an uphill task at Santiago Bernabeu. After failing the Madrid challenge, City regained their form with their 4-0 win against Newcastle but Guardiola is looking intimidated for his players against Carlo Ancelotti’s superb side.
“I don't know, when we arrive, is one per cent,” said Guardiola. “It will be minimal, but as much as you have a chance, we will try, that's for sure, you know? So we're going there, like always, like we have done, but this season, the reality is that we have been miles and miles away,” said Guardiola while speaking to the media.
Erling Haaland doubtful for City's match against Real Madrid
City fans might not see their star player Erling Haaland in action as the striker’s knee issue hasn’t been resolved yet while the return of Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake might bring cheers to the faces of their supporters. However, if any of these players fail to show up, Guardiola might hand the opportunity to Abdukodir Khusanov, who looked extraordinary in his second match.
“He's extremely fast, his decision-making has to improve, but it's a question of age. Most importantly, he's settled in really, really, well. He's so shy, he doesn't talk much, so I think this will help us a lot with him,” said the Catalan tactician on Khusanov.
