Article by Romeo Ene – Published Monday, January 19, 2026 23:29 / Updated Monday, January 19, 2026 23:36
Pep Guardiola (55 years old), the coach of Manchester City, held the press conference prior to the away duel with Bodo/Glimt, in the 7th stage of the main group of the Champions League.
After the failure in the derby with Manchester United, score 0-2, Pep Guardiola announced that he is totally focused on the League. The duel with the Norwegians can prove decisive for the course of the English in the ultimate competition.
Pep Guardiola, statements before Bodo/Glimt – Manchester City: “We have an opportunity to secure the Top 8”
Guardiola pointed out that that match is already history. “They were better and when the opponent is better, there is only one thing to do: congratulate them, learn and move on,” Guardiola said, according to abola.pt.
City's manager reiterated that the focus is entirely on the Champions League and the goal of securing a place among the top eight teams in the league stage.
“We now have 13 points, last year we only had seven at this point. Tomorrow we have a chance to secure a place in the Top 8 and that is more than enough reason to be focused.
Inconsistency is normal when you have 11 players unavailable. We have many players with less than a year at the club and that takes time. When we manage to maintain a stable defensive line, everything becomes more consistent.
I like to rotate players, but consistency in the defensive line helps,” Pep added.
About Erling Haaland, who left the derby visibly tired, Guardiola reassured the fans: “He told me he slept incredibly well. It is apt“.
“Guehi is a top defender”
Guardiola also spoke about Marc Guehi, Manchester City's latest signing, and emphasized the importance of the transfer. “He is a top defender, plays for England and is at the perfect age to stay with us for many years.
It can evolve both on the right and on the left. I especially like him because I know how much he wanted to join us and the help he will give us. It is very important that it is here“, said the technician.
I'm sure if he had a longer contract with Crystal Palace it would have been impossible to get him. The fact that there were still six months left on the contract made it easier.
Of course, Crystal Palace and Manchester City reached an agreement, and later the player decided to come.
– Pep Guardiolathe manager of Manchester City
