Pep Guardiola has set a significant challenge for his revamped Manchester City squad as they prepare to face Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night. The match marks the fifth consecutive season that these two teams meet in the Champions League. Although this encounter is part of the group stage, Guardiola sees it as an essential opportunity for his team to establish their credentials in European football.
City has undergone substantial changes in 2025, bringing in 10 new players while saying goodbye to some key figures. This transition comes as they prepare to face a formidable opponent, a team Guardiola refers to as the “Kings of Europe.” He believes that proving themselves in this high-stakes environment could be crucial for their aspirations later in the tournament.
“We’re in the group stage,” Guardiola stated. “It’s different if you’re in a quarter or semi-final. All the games have been tight, but at the same time, we have important players right now who are here in the Bernabeu for the first time.”
The absence of veteran players like Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, John Stones, and Rodri adds another layer of challenge for the team. Guardiola remarked on the importance of these new players experiencing such a prestigious venue, emphasizing that these encounters are vital for growth in European competitions.
“We have a little bit of a transition,” he explained. “I’d say the biggest players, with the incredible legacies over one decade, are not here. Many players are new and have to experience that because if you want to make a step up in Europe you have to live these experiences so next time you know that you have done it and can compete.”
As City prepares to face Real Madrid, they do so without Rodri, who will miss the match once again, and Stones, who is sidelined with a leg injury. The challenge ahead is significant, but Guardiola remains optimistic about his squad’s potential to deliver a strong performance against one of the giants of European football.
This match not only serves as a test of City’s abilities but also a chance to make a statement in their Champions League campaign. As they look to put their new signings in the spotlight, all eyes will be on the Bernabeu when the whistle blows.
