Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admitted that he was left ’emotionally destroyed’ following City’s 3-0 win over Bayern Munich in the first leg of the quarterfinals Champions League game on Tuesday at the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri got Guardiola’s men to a desired start with his 27th minute goal before Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland adding City’s second and third at the backend of the game.
It is a result that should lessen the pressure on the English champions ahead of the return leg next week in Germany, but the Spaniard feels his side should’ve done better.
“It was not comfortable at all. I am emotionally destroyed! I have 10 more years today. It was such a demanding game,” Guardiola said of the game that had Haaland score his 45th goal of the season in all competitions.
“For 55 to 60 minutes, it was a tight game, for parts they were better than us. From the start of the second half, they were better. We could not control them. But we adjusted something and we were better. It is an incredible result. But we have to do something in Munich at a little bit better not to suffer too much. We will try to do it.
“I have been there many times. I know this team is special. To knock out these top teams you need two top games not one.”
Guardiola may have been left drained emotionally, but he insists he knows exactly what they have to do to get past the hurdle that is Bayern.
“I know exactly what we have to do there. If we do not perform well, they can score one, two or three. I know that and the players know it.
“It is an incredible result but we have to do our game with a huge, huge personality because otherwise, these are top clubs and teams.
“I have been there, you have not been there. I have been there for three years. I know what it means for the people, we are going there to score goals and try to win the game. If not, it will be so difficult.”
Thomas Tuchel, Guardiola’s opposite number sent a warning City way insisting the tie is still wide open.
“This does not feel like a 3-0 but it is a 3-0 and it is a huge, huge task now to turn this around. We are realistic but we will not give up. It will not be over until we are in the shower.”
The two sides will face-off again next week on Wednesday at Allianz Arena in the second leg of the tie.
