Man City’s season an exceptional one despite Champions League setback, insists Guardiola

Josep Guardiola manager of Manchester City
Josep Guardiola manager of Manchester City | Photo Credit: IMAGO

Citizens ended up runners up against Chelsea in the Champions League final

Manchester City failed to get the better of Chelsea in the Champions League final – also for the third time in this season – as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat.

Citizens were utterly disappointed as they couldn’t replicate the similar success they had in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.

Moreover, Pep Guardiola‘s dream of lifting the Champions League crown with Man City has been shattered once again.

However, Guardiola defended the UCL debacle by stating that City had enjoyed an exceptional season nonetheless.

“I would like to say it was an exceptional season for us. It was a dream for us to be here. Unfortunately, we could not win.

“For most of us in this club, it is the first time here, but we work to come back one day.

“It was a tough season in the pandemic, but we learn from this for the future. I have incredible respect for the players, they gave everything, but we will come back stronger. I want to congratulate them for their exceptional season.”

Guardiola also said the final was a close encounter and hailed Chelsea’s defensive set-up.

“It was a tight game, and we had some chances, but against the defensive structure of Chelsea, it is not easy.

We struggled with long balls and second balls. At that moment, you need the inspiration and quality; there were three or four moments that were close but didn’t arrive.

“We played in the Champions League final; we won the Premier League again and competed well all season. Now, I want to go home with my family I have not seen for a long time, take a break, and start working on how to approach next season.”

The Spanish manager had last won the UCL trophy during his tenure at Barcelona, and it remains to be seen how he will respond in the upcoming season.