- Josep Guardiola dismissed thoughts of elimination from the Champions League, focusing on Manchester City’s must-win match against Club Brugge
- Guardiola praised Brugge’s 20-match unbeaten streak and emphasized the importance of his team’s focus
- Oscar Bobb may return after a long absence, while John Stones’ availability depends on his condition before kickoff
Key Takeaways:
Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola has expressed confidence ahead of his team’s crucial Champions League clash against Club Brugge, emphasizing that elimination is not on his mind. “We are not thinking about what happens if we don’t win. We know what we have to do, and we are ready” said Guardiola during the pre-match press conference.
🎙️| Pep Guardiola on #ManCity vs Brugge:
“I know for all of the people concerned about whether we qualify, I appreciate your concern… I’m thinking we’re going to do it!” 🗣️‼️
📰 via @ManCity pic.twitter.com/2EPwY23edE
— City HQ (@City_HQs) January 28, 2025
City requires a victory at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow to advance to the playoffs for the Round of 16. Guardiola also praised the Belgian side, which has gone 20 matches unbeaten. “Club Brugge is a very strong team. They haven’t lost in 20 games, and they deserve all the credit for that” he noted.
The manager confirmed that Oscar Bobb, who has been sidelined since the Community Shield on August 14, could make his return to the squad. “Oscar has trained well, and we will decide tomorrow” said Guardiola. Regarding John Stones, the tactician added that his participation will be assessed closer to kickoff based on how he feels.
Manchester City will be looking to secure a crucial victory against an in-form Club Brugge to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Currently sitting just outside the top 24 positions that guarantee qualification to the knockout phase, the Premier League side faces a high-stakes showdown at the Etihad.