Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emphasized the significance of their upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid, branding the pivotal encounter as "a final."
The Premier League champions engaged in a captivating 3-3 draw with Los Blancos last Tuesday, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at the Etihad Stadium this Wednesday. Guardiola's focus is on bolstering his squad for the crucial fixture, with particular attention to the fitness of defender Kyle Walker.
"Kyle Walker feels much better, maybe he can help with minutes against Real Madrid because it's a final," Guardiola remarked, hinting at Walker's potential involvement in the decisive match. However, the manager expressed caution, emphasizing the need to prioritize Walker's long-term fitness.
"I don't want to lose him for a long time... we will decide in the next days," Guardiola added, underscoring the careful approach City will adopt in managing Walker's return to action.
Walker has been sidelined since sustaining a muscle problem during the previous international break, rendering him unavailable for City's recent fixtures. His potential availability for the Real Madrid clash offers a glimmer of hope for Guardiola, who seeks to bolster his defensive options ahead of the crucial encounter.
As City prepare to face the formidable challenge posed by Real Madrid, Guardiola's strategic decisions regarding Walker's fitness will play a pivotal role in shaping the team's defensive lineup and tactical approach. The manager's meticulous approach reflects City's commitment to maximizing their chances of success in the Champions League.
With the tie delicately poised following the thrilling draw in the first leg, Guardiola and his players are fully aware of the stakes involved. A victory against Real Madrid would propel City closer to their ultimate goal of securing European glory, underscoring the significance of the upcoming fixture.
As the anticipation builds ahead of the decisive showdown, Guardiola's emphasis on treating the match as a "final" serves as a rallying cry for City's players, instilling a sense of urgency and determination as they strive to overcome one of Europe's most formidable opponents.
In the days leading up to the clash, all eyes will be on Guardiola's team selection and tactical preparations, with Walker's potential return adding an intriguing dimension to City's defensive setup. With their Champions League ambitions hanging in the balance, City will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory against Real Madrid.
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