Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has played down expectations ahead of his side’s Champions League opener against Napoli on Thursday, admitting that his team are “apparently not favourites” to win Europe’s biggest club prize this season.
City, who lifted the Champions League trophy for the first time in 2023, crashed out early last season after a painful two-legged defeat to Real Madrid, who have won the competition a record 15 times.
Bookmakers Tip Rivals Over City
According to bookmakers, Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, and defending champions PSG are more strongly favoured to win this year’s tournament than City.
When asked if he viewed his team as contenders, Guardiola told reporters on Wednesday:
“Apparently, we are not. We just won once, so that is a lot of difficulty. We’ll just enjoy the moment and focus on the game we have to play.”
City Seek Redemption After Trophyless Season
Last year marked the first time in eight years City ended a season without silverware. Their Premier League campaign began shakily with two defeats in the opening three matches, but they bounced back with a commanding 3-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday.
De Bruyne’s Return to the Etihad
Thursday’s clash will also be emotionally charged as Kevin De Bruyne returns to Manchester in Napoli colours. The Belgian midfielder ended a glittering 10-year stint at City in June, joining the Italian champions after winning multiple trophies under Guardiola.
Speaking on De Bruyne’s return, Guardiola said:
“I’m looking forward to seeing him, but only after the game. Players of his level don’t need much time to adapt and perform well.”
Donnarumma’s Debut Season at City
City’s summer signing, Gianluigi Donnarumma, who joined from PSG for £26 million, also addressed the media. The Italian goalkeeper, who won the Champions League with PSG in May, expressed his delight at joining City:
“My desire was to come here. That was my first and only option.”
With fresh faces in the squad and motivation running high, City will be desperate to prove the bookmakers wrong as they chase a second Champions League crown.
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