Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola delivered a stark message following his team’s impressive 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Despite the result, he believes his side are still a long way from being genuine Champions League contenders.
City’s comeback win in Spain boosted their chances of finishing in the top eight of their Champions League group and saw them climb to fourth place in the league phase.
But speaking to TNT Sports afterwards, Pep Guardiola refused to let the result disguise his belief that there is still much more to do before Man City can realistically aim for European glory.
“We are [far] away. Still, we are not ready. In February, we will be better,” Guardiola said.
Praise for effort, but quality still needs improving
He went on to acknowledge the effort and spirit shown by his players. Still, he reiterated that quality and consistency remain areas for improvement:
“The players made an incredible effort, it was an incredibly good result, the spirit is unbelievable, but there are still margins to improve.”
Guardiola also reflected on the specific challenge of beating Real Madrid on their own turf, noting that several of his players had experienced the stadium for the first time.
“It could be better. Of course, winning in the Bernabeu is so difficult. Four, five, six players played their first game here, so maybe we’re not completely ready to play in these stages like we are, but it’s a process, and there are a lot of new players,” he explained.
A vital three points, but City ‘still not ready’
Despite his measured tone, Guardiola recognised the importance of the points secured by Man City in Madrid.
“Winning here, I have to be happy, especially in terms of points. We have 13 already, so it’s in our hands to finish in the top eight. That is the target. Winning here, after what happened in Leverkusen, has been good,” he added.
The City manager also praised Real Madrid’s players, acknowledging that his side did not face a weak side, grateful to walk away with hard-earned three points.
“Rodrygo, what a player. Vinicius, Bellingham and the pace they have up front is so dangerous, and that’s why you cannot stay high.
“You have to be so committed in the way you have to defend. We lacked a little bit, but in general, the effort was extraordinary.”
Up next for City in the Champions League are Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray, come the New Year.
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