Crushed after the 3-1 defeat at the Bernabéu, Pep Guardiola opens up: “This Real Madrid is…”

Real Madrid have just knocked out Manchester City in the Champions League. Beaten 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu this Wednesday, Pep Guardiola’s team heads back to England with their heads low. After the defeat, the Citizens’ coach acknowledges the superiority of Carlo Ancelotti’s team, admitting that they were second best in both legs of the tie.

From the outset, this encounter was expected to be a thrilling clash between two of Europe’s most dominant sides. However, in reality, there was little contest over the two legs. Real Madrid, with their unrivaled European pedigree, imposed their authority on the tie, leaving Manchester City chasing shadows. Guardiola, despite his tactical genius, had no response to the intensity and clinical finishing of Los Blancos.

Manchester City entered the second leg with a mountain to climb, having already lost 3-2 in the first leg at the Etihad. They needed a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit, but Madrid quickly snuffed out any hopes of a comeback. Kylian Mbappé, once again proving why he is regarded as one of the best in the world, was the tormentor-in-chief. The French superstar opened the scoring early, setting the tone for a dominant Madrid performance.

With every attack, Real Madrid looked more threatening, their fluid play dismantling City’s defensive structure. Guardiola’s side, known for their high-pressing and possession-based style, found themselves uncharacteristically struggling to string passes together. Madrid’s midfield trio of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Toni Kroos dictated the tempo, ensuring City remained under constant pressure.

Mbappé was simply unplayable on the night. His speed, dribbling, and finishing were a nightmare for City’s defense. By the time he completed his hat-trick, it was clear that Madrid were on another level. Every time City seemed to build some momentum, Madrid swiftly cut them down, demonstrating their remarkable ability to shift gears effortlessly.

In his post-match interview, Guardiola did not shy away from acknowledging Real Madrid’s superiority. “The best team won. We don’t have the rhythm that Real Madrid has right now, in all areas. In recent years, we either went through or didn’t, but we were very good. This year, they’ve been better because they have long possessions, the ability to run, and defend well both high and low… Congratulations to them,” he said, with an air of resignation.

He further elaborated on what makes this Real Madrid side different from previous versions. “What’s best about Madrid is their momentum and quality. Before, they were more of a transition team, and now they’re capable of creating plays with the ball. This year, I think they’ve grown. They are more complete,” Guardiola admitted. His words will undoubtedly resonate with Madrid fans and players alike, reaffirming their status as Europe’s elite.

Madrid’s evolution under Carlo Ancelotti has been remarkable. Once renowned primarily for their counter-attacking prowess, they now dominate possession, suffocate opponents with their pressing, and dictate play with surgical precision. The additions of young stars like Bellingham and Camavinga have given them a new dimension, ensuring their continued dominance in the Champions League.

For Manchester City, this defeat raises questions about their European ambitions. Despite their domestic success, their struggles against Madrid expose their vulnerabilities on the biggest stage. Guardiola, for all his tactical brilliance, must find a way to overcome Madrid’s growing dominance if City are to finally establish themselves as European royalty.

As the dust settles on this epic showdown, one thing is clear: Real Madrid have once again demonstrated why they are the kings of Europe. Their hunger, quality, and winning mentality remain unmatched. For Guardiola and Manchester City, the challenge is to regroup and come back stronger. But for now, the night belongs to Real Madrid, and to Kylian Mbappé, who delivered yet another masterclass on the grandest stage.