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Pep Guardiola insisted his « numbers aren’t bad » in the Champions League after ending a 12-month winless away run in the competition with 2-0 win over Villarreal on Tuesday.
Erling Haaland scored for a 12th successive game – his 24th for club and country this season – before Bernardo Silva doubled the lead shortly before half-time.
City saw out the rest of the game in fairly comfortable fashion at the Estadio de la Ceramica as Guardiola’s side made it nine games unbeaten in all competitions this season.
The result lifted the Premier League side to fifth in the table in Europe’s elite club competition and it was a performance that delighted the City boss.
« It was really good after I was a bit disappointed with (the 2-2 draw against) Monaco. Nowadays playing a team in the Spanish league is so difficult, I know from my experience.
« And Villarreal in the last, I don’t know the last 23 times, they’ve been 17 or 18 times in Europe. That shows how good they are and how good things they do. The manager, Marcelino, is a top-class manager. »
When asked about City’s recent dismal record away from home in Europe, Guardiola carefully hit back, admitting that last season was a disappointment, but overall his side’s record is strong.
He said: « Last season was not good, but I think our results in the Champions League last year are not bad. Personally, my numbers in the Champions League are not bad. But last season was a difficult season for us.
« But the atmosphere and the way the team behaves and plays makes me feel good. »
Although Haaland once again grabbed the headlines, the City manager also praised England youngster Rico Lewis, who provided the assist for the Norwegian’s goal.
« I’m almost sure that 90% of people, when they see Rico (Luiz) line up, say ‘what’s the reason?' » Guardiola added.
« I love this player. I adore this type of player. Defensively and offensively, he is more than intelligent.
« I’m really happy for him in this game. »
Next up for City is a trip to Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.
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