Pep Guardiola insisted his “numbers aren’t unhealthy” within the Champions League after ending a 12-month winless away run within the competitors with a 2-0 victory over Villarreal on Tuesday.
Erling Haaland scored for the twelfth sport in a row – his twenty fourth for membership and nation this season – earlier than Bernardo Silva doubled the lead shortly earlier than half-time.
Metropolis noticed out the remainder of the sport in pretty comfy trend at Estadio de la Ceramica as Guardiola’s facet made it 9 matches unbeaten in all competitions this time period.
The outcome strikes the Premier League facet as much as fifth within the desk of Europe’s elite membership competitors and the efficiency was one which happy the Metropolis boss.
“It was actually good, after I used to be a bit disillusioned in [the 2-2 draw against] Monaco. As we speak, to play a staff within the Spanish league is so tough, I do know from my expertise.
“And Villarreal within the final, I don’t know the final 23 occasions they’ve been 17 or 18 occasions in Europe. That exhibits how good they’re and what number of good issues they do. The supervisor, Marcelino, is a prime, prime class supervisor.”
When requested about Metropolis’s latest dismal away document in Europe, Guardiola gently hit again, admitting final season was a disappointment however that general his staff’s document has been sturdy.
He stated: “Final season was not good however I believe our numbers within the Champions League within the final yr isn’t unhealthy. Personally, my numbers within the Champions League aren’t unhealthy. However final season was a tough season for us.
“However the vibe and the best way the staff is behaving and taking part in, it makes me really feel high-quality.”
Regardless of Haaland as soon as once more grabbing the headlines, the Metropolis supervisor additionally singled out reward for English teen Rico Lewis, who supplied the help for the Norwegian’s purpose.
“I’m fairly certain that 90% of the folks after they see Rico [Lewis] line up, the stated ‘what’s the motive?’” added Guardiola.
“I really like that participant. These sort of gamers, I like them. Defensively and offensively, he’s past clever.
“I’m actually happy for him on this sport.”
Subsequent up for Metropolis is a visit to Aston Villa within the Premier League on Sunday.
