Pep Guardiola opens up about Real Madrid showdown – ‘Have got them in my sights’ | OneFootball

Manchester City are preparing for a crucial period in their season, with back-to-back high-stakes fixtures on the horizon.

Manager Pep Guardiola is keen to keep his squad focused as they face Leyton Orient in the FA Cup on Saturday before turning their attention to a challenging Champions League encounter against Real Madrid.

While it is natural for fans to already be looking ahead to the massive European clash, Guardiola remains determined not to underestimate Leyton Orient.

Guardiola’s take on Real Madrid

Following their FA Cup tie, City will swiftly return to Manchester to begin preparing for their Champions League showdown.

The manager has made it clear that the task of outmanoeuvring Real Madrid remains a top priority for him and his coaching staff.

“We ‘ll be back in  Manchester early tomorrow after the game and then we’ll have time to start talking [about Real Madrid],” said the City manager when asked about the Real Madrid tie.

Pep Guardiola has Real Madrid in his sights. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

“Of course, I’ve got Madrid in my sights, but Leyton Orient deserve my attention. It’s always been that way.

“Otherwise, we wouldn’t have reached the number of FA Cup semi-finals and finals that we’ve played in the last five or six years. That’s why I’m worried and focused on Leyton Orient,” he added.

Guardiola, having faced them on multiple occasions during his managerial career, understands the tactical brilliance required to overcome a side as resilient as Los Blancos.

Problems for Real Madrid

However, Real Madrid are currently dealing with significant injury troubles that could influence the outcome of the first leg. Both Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, crucial pillars of their defensive line, are confirmed to be unavailable for the match.

Their absence leaves Carlo Ancelotti with a relatively inexperienced backline to field against Manchester City’s star-studded attack.

This defensive crisis presents a golden opportunity for Guardiola’s side to exploit gaps in Madrid’s defence. But with Real Madrid’s history of thriving under pressure, City will need to bring their best performance to secure a vital advantage.

Source: MARCA