Pep Guardiola expressed deep disappointment after Manchester City's 2-3 defeat to Real Madrid in yet another heartbreaking finish. The City manager reflected on his team's struggles this season, noting they have conceded eight goals in the last 16 minutes of their recent five Champions League matches. In a candid post-match press conference, Guardiola admitted that seeing his players surrender a lead again was difficult to accept. He stated, 'It's hard to manage because mistakes in critical areas cost us dearly.' Despite acknowledging the match was more balanced than previous encounters at the Etihad Stadium, he noted that Real Madrid's performance might have been their best in England. The Spaniard also highlighted that post-2-1, his team tended to attack too hastily against a formidable opponent like Real Madrid, who demonstrated improved cohesion and attacking prowess. While Guardiola struggled to pinpoint a solution to repeated failures, he praised Madrid's relentless style, emphasizing that his side needs to learn to manage matches better, particularly in crucial moments. The match highlighted how Real Madrid, despite past difficulties at the Etihad, has perfected the art of capitalizing on opportunities, illustrated by their 20 shots on goal, the most an opponent has managed against City in Guardiola's tenure.
