Challenging Times, Yet Guardiola Remains Optimistic About Team's Performance
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Turin, Dec 12 (NationPress) After suffering a 2-0 defeat to Juventus in the Champions League at Allianz Stadium, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola stated that the club is enduring a 'challenging' phase but emphasized his unwavering trust in his team's potential to regain form promptly.
Goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie in the second half clinched the victory for Juventus, even though Manchester City dominated possession and field position.
This loss marked a continuation of City’s troubling streak, recording only one win in their last 10 matches and placing them in 22nd place among the 36 teams in the Champions League standings, with two matches remaining.
“Certainly, it’s tough. Aside from one or two games during this stretch that were not up to par, we’ve performed consistently well, and I commend Juventus. I don’t attribute our loss today to defensive errors; in other matches, yes, but not this one. We were lacking that final pass when we reached the six-yard box. That was the key difference today, but I have great affection for my team,” Guardiola remarked in the post-match press conference.
“I cherish my team and their style of play, and the results will not sway my perspective. Congratulations to Juventus for their defensive strategy and effective transitions. However, we displayed remarkable aggression in our high pressing.
“We excelled in winning long balls, and the back four performed admirably. Naturally, it was a cross, and Vlahovic is formidable in such situations. Nonetheless, I am truly satisfied with our performance,” he continued.
In light of the tough results, Guardiola reflected on the need for constant analysis of performances and the pursuit of ways to motivate his players.
“I assert that every game where we performed well is subject to analysis. The outcome is one aspect I consider. I ask myself: what can I do today to ensure excellent performance?
“Indeed, I reflect on my actions during both the good and poor moments. I remained composed during the good times, and I maintain that stability during challenging times. I strive to discover solutions and make adjustments, but the game itself is present. I am always candid in recognizing when our performance is subpar or commendable; ultimately, the game will redeem us.
“However, today we allowed very few chances compared to matches, such as against Nottingham Forest, where we secured victories by playing at the right tempo. What has transpired is simply life. It occurs. We must accept that experiencing rough patches is a normality, and we will persist until the end,” Guardiola concluded.
