A year ago, Manchester City, dramatically eliminated by “Real”, took revenge, surpassed the most successful team in the history of the Champions League (14 trophies) and reached the grand final in Istanbul. At the end of the game at the Etihad Stadium (4-0), coach Pep Guardiola was excited and talked about the significance of this result for his team.

Pep Guardiola, the imperial Rodri and qualification for the Champions League final

The Iberian coach praised his players and gave the example of Rodri, a midfielder who does not get the same attention as striker Erling Haaland, but who Guardiola says plays a very important role in the Citizens’ team.

“At home, we feel incredibly comfortable in front of our fans. I felt we had to go through a year of suffering after losing (to Real Madrid) last year. It hurt so much when people criticized the lack of personality of the players.

A year later, we show again how special this group of players is. But we must congratulate everyone in the organization, from the president and owner to every single employee, everyone is working towards a goal.

Rodri had a phenomenal year. Everyone talks about Haland, but nothing would be possible without him. He has become the best midfielder we have, he is imperial. We are very, very happy.

When you get to the Champions League final you celebrate, but you don’t have much time because you have a chance to win the Premier League on Sunday, well, that’s a nice challenge.

Tomorrow (not Thursday) we will have breakfast with all the families, a free day, and then we will prepare for the match on Sunday” – Pep Guardiola for BT Sports.

Manchester City’s goals were scored by Bernardo Silva (’23, ’37), Manuel Akanji (’76) and Julián Alvarez (’90+1).

On June 10, “Manchester City” and “Inter” will meet for the big trophy of the Champions League. The final will be held at the Atatürk Stadium in Istanbul.