Pep Guardiola warned Manchester City are still a long way off winning the Champions League despite a 2-1 comeback victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu.
The win — only City’s second at the Bernabéu — moved them up to fourth in Group stage standings and strengthened their bid to finish in the top eight. City now sit on 13 points, with matches against Bodø/Glimt and Galatasaray to come after the New Year. The result also shifted bettors’ expectations: Sky Bet now list City as third-favourites for the title behind Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
Guardiola kept expectations in check after the game, saying the squad remains ‘far away’ from being ready to lift the trophy. He suggested improvement will come with time, adding he expects the team to be better by February. The manager praised his players’ effort and spirit but admitted there are still margins for improvement and that the squad remains a work in progress because of several recent signings and a number of players making their first appearances at the historic stadium.
Winning at the Bernabéu was important, Guardiola said, especially after the defeat to Bayer Leverkusen. But he also highlighted Real Madrid’s attacking danger, naming Rodrygo, Vinícius and Jude Bellingham — and the pace they offer — as reasons why City cannot afford to sit too high or relax defensively.
Erling Haaland described the victory as vital and hard-earned. He noted the match was chaotic with many transitions and several close chances for City, and underlined how difficult it is to get a result at Madrid. Haaland said the win was crucial response after the Leverkusen loss and stressed the importance of finishing the group strongly to secure a top-eight finish.
Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has reportedly come under pressure after managing just two wins in eight matches since early November. Jude Bellingham publicly backed his manager, saying the dressing room is fully behind Alonso and that players have held constructive talks following a run of draws. Bellingham rejected suggestions the squad is demoralised, insisting they are addressing issues internally, staying committed and believe the season can be turned around — perhaps with a bit of luck or through changes they make behind closed doors.