Guardiola identifies Liverpool as one of three teams capable of preventing Real Madrid from winning the Champions League.
Pep Guardiola has highlighted three teams that could challenge Real Madrid’s dominance in the Champions League following Manchester City’s exit in the playoff round. At the same time, Carlo Ancelotti has given Kylian Mbappe advice on what it will take to reach Cristiano Ronaldo’s level.
Real Madrid secured their place in the Round of 16 by defeating Manchester City 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in the second leg of the knockout playoffs, completing a 6-3 aggregate victory. After winning the first leg 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium, the Spanish giants were considered favorites to advance. Mbappe wasted no time making an impact, scoring within the first four minutes.
The French striker continued his impressive display, netting again in the 33rd minute before sealing his hat-trick in the 61st. A late goal from Nico Gonzalez in stoppage time was merely a consolation for City, as Madrid’s victory was already secured.
After the match, Guardiola praised Madrid’s performance, acknowledging that they were the superior side. The former Bayern Munich manager admitted that Los Blancos are frontrunners for the title but suggested that Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona could be strong contenders as well.
Speaking to Metro, Guardiola said:
“Madrid are always strong contenders for the Champions League. While other teams are having great seasons, Madrid’s pedigree and consistency make them the team to beat. However, Liverpool, Barcelona, and PSG are also playing at a high level and could challenge them.”
He further added:
“Madrid deserved to win. This season, we haven’t been at our best. In previous years, we matched or even outperformed them, but this time, they were simply better. Their ability to maintain possession, press effectively, and transition quickly made the difference. We must accept the result, learn from it, and focus on the challenges ahead.”
Guardiola stressed the importance of moving forward, with City aiming to compete for the FA Cup, secure a top-four Premier League finish, and return stronger in the next Champions League campaign. Despite this season’s setback, he commended his squad for their consistent performances in the competition over the years.
Ancelotti on Mbappe’s Potential
Although Mbappe had a slow start to his Madrid career, he has since found top form, scoring 27 goals and providing three assists in 37 appearances this season.
Ancelotti, impressed with Mbappe’s outstanding performance against City, commented on his potential to reach Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary status.
“Mbappe has the talent to reach Cristiano’s level, but it will take a lot of hard work. Ronaldo set an incredibly high benchmark, and if Mbappe wants to match it, he must stay dedicated and keep improving,” Ancelotti explained.
Transfer News: Camavinga, Branthwaite, and Vinicius Jr.
Midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has been linked with a possible move away from Madrid in the summer, with reports suggesting that Manchester United have been monitoring him since November. Due to injuries and inconsistent performances, Madrid’s management is reportedly unsure about his long-term role in the squad.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are keen on signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite but face multiple challenges. Everton are unwilling to sell the young center-back, valuing him at over £70 million, and competition from Premier League clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal could complicate the deal.
Additionally, the Saudi Pro League is reportedly preparing a record-breaking offer for Madrid’s Brazilian star Vinicius Junior. Although Vinicius has expressed his commitment to staying at Madrid, Saudi clubs remain determined to convince him otherwise.
