After losing the Premier League title to Liverpool, Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has acknowledged the fact that the team’s focus would be more on other competitions.
Manchester City is still in the FA Cup after recording a 2-0 win over Newcastle United at the St James Park in the quarter-final and book a showdown with Arsenal in the last four. City’s hunt for their third successive Premier League ended last Thursday after recording a 2-1 loss against Chelsea at the Stamford Bridge last Thursday.
As a result of this, City’s attention will expectedly shift fro the league to the English League Cup, FA Cup, and, where they have a good outing. The Citizens had in their last encounter shock Real Madrid at the Bernabeau 2-1 with the date for the return leg yet to be announced by UEFA, following the resumption of actions.
Star player Kevin De Bruyne marked his 29th birthday with a first-half penalty before Raheem Sterling put the finishing touch on a routine win in the second interval.
Players attention will understand shift – Guardiola
Speaking on the development after the victory against the Tyneside, Guardiola admitted that since the league title had eluded the club, it is understandable that his players will complete in the three remaining tournaments.
While noting that after the defeat in London against Chelsea, Guardiola said that his team has been struggling since the restart a little bit to maintain focus.
“We’re playing for qualification to the Champions League, it’s not done, but we’re close, we need two victories.
“But, of course, now the FA Cup and Champions League it’s a little bit different for the fact we’re playing at Wembley again, we were winners last season, we are in the semis again, and that’s so, so good. Then we prepare for the end of the season against Madrid.”
Speaking on the outcome of the tie, the manager, who is happy to progress, pointed out that it was not easy to attack against defenders so, so deep.
“It was a solid performance, we conceded few [chances], and we are happy to be going back to London to Wembley.”
