Pep Guardiola has compared Manchester City’s upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid to a derby, as the two clubs prepare to meet for the fourth consecutive season.
However, the Spaniard is concerned that City's attempt to eliminate the reigning European champions could be affected by the demanding Premier League schedule. After securing a place in the knockout stages with a victory over Club Brugge, City was drawn against the 15-time European champions in Friday’s play-off round. The first leg will take place in Manchester on February 11 or 12, with the return match in Madrid a week later.
This fixture comes amid a grueling period for City, who face Arsenal in the league on Sunday, followed by matches against Newcastle and Liverpool on either side of the second leg. Additionally, February includes an FA Cup fourth-round tie against Leyton Orient and a Premier League clash with Tottenham.
“It already feels like a derby, facing Madrid four years in a row,” Guardiola remarked.
“The draw could have been kinder, but that’s the nature of the competition. Bayern Munich would have been extremely difficult, and Real Madrid is no different—we know how strong they are.”
Balancing multiple competitions, City must also focus on securing Champions League qualification for next season while pushing for another European title. Guardiola faces tough selection decisions during this crucial stretch.
Unlike other European leagues that adjust their schedules to assist clubs in continental competitions, English football maintains its demanding fixture list.
“The Premier League always gives its teams the toughest schedules when competing in Europe,” Guardiola said. “Facing Real Madrid or Bayern Munich is already challenging, but having Newcastle in between makes it even harder.”
When asked if domestic authorities should offer more support with scheduling, Guardiola responded, “Are you seriously asking me this after all these years? Come on. Don’t expect me to say anything inappropriate.
“This has always been the case. Sir Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho, and Arsene Wenger all voiced similar concerns. I’m not complaining—we’ve won trebles and had incredible success despite it.”
While Guardiola would welcome adjustments, he remains pragmatic. “Would I love more time? Absolutely. But if you don’t like it, go to another country. That’s just how it is here.”
This draw marks the fifth two-legged encounter between City and Real in the last six seasons. Real Madrid ended City’s campaign in the quarter-finals last year, but Guardiola’s side triumphed in the 2022/23 semi-finals en route to their first Champions League title.
City have struggled in the absence of their influential midfielder, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury against Arsenal in September and was initially ruled out for the season. However, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has made significant progress and is optimistic about returning before the campaign’s end.
“He’s positive, but an ACL injury requires time for any athlete,” Guardiola said. “Rushing recovery could lead to setbacks next season. He wants to play tomorrow, but we have to respect the process and take it step by step.”
Guardiola’s hopes of reclaiming the Champions League would receive a major boost with the return of Rodri. However, he remains resigned to the scheduling realities dictated by broadcasters.
“Do you think it’s going to change? The broadcasters make the decisions—they don’t ask me what’s best for us.”
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