Pep Guardiola says Manchester City's Champions League exit is now a 'reality' after loss to PSG

Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Manchester City’s exit from the Champions League is now a “reality” following their 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes. Despite initially taking a two-goal lead in the match, City were unable to hold onto their advantage, ultimately losing the game and dropping to 25th in the standings. This result means they are no longer in the knockout places, as the competition has adopted a new format this season.

Guardiola reflected on the disappointing performance, admitting that the current position is justified, given their inability to capitalize on the early lead. “The table is fair,” he said, acknowledging that City’s failure to secure a result left them in a difficult spot. However, he remains focused on their next challenge, stating that the team must beat Club Brugge to have a chance of progressing in the tournament.

City’s collapse in Paris has raised questions about their consistency in Europe’s elite competition, especially after such a strong start. Guardiola’s men looked set to take control of the group but allowed PSG to rally, with the Parisians scoring four unanswered goals to claim all three points. The loss has dealt a blow to City’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stages, and they now face an uphill battle to regain their place in the top spots of the group.

Guardiola has emphasized the importance of their upcoming matches, with a crucial game against Club Brugge ahead. Despite the setback, the manager believes his team can still turn things around if they perform at their best in the remaining group fixtures.