Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola insists he doesn’t fear being ‘thrown out on the road’ ahead of his side’s Champions League play-off against Real Madrid.
City, the 2023 winners, tackle 15-time winners Real Madrid for a spot within the last-16 after each clubs did not finish in the highest eight of the Champions League group stage table.
The 2 teams faced off last season, when City were knocked out on penalties to eventual winners Madrid on the quarter-final stage.
Guardiola’s side are underdogs within the tie they usually made must win the competition this season to re-enter it next term, given City are fifth within the Premier League table.
But Guardiola, who signed a brand new two-year deal on the club in October, doesn’t fear he might be sacked if results proceed to be poor.
‘I don’t know if a physician or an architect gets asked about his position,” said Guardiola.
‘I don’t have that feeling. I’m still here for what we’ve won in previous seasons, otherwise I probably wouldn’t be here.
‘I don’t think I’m going to be thrown out on the road.’
City host Madrid on Tuesday on the Etihad before travelling to the Bernabeu for the second leg.
Guardiola feels victory against Carlo Ancelotti’s side could help to revive some confidence to his team.
‘This season we struggled quite a bit,’ said Guardiola.
‘In fact it will be good to undergo. I wish to feel week by week that we’re there.
‘They’re looking forward to it, Real with their history. It’s all the time a pleasure. We cant forget that a decade ago we weren’t here often.’
MORE: William Saliba reacts to Arsenal fan begging him not to affix Real Madrid
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the most recent news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
