The quest for a second consecutive European coronation stops suddenly for Manchester City. Eliminated by a ruthless Real Madrid (6-3 on all two games), the men of Pep Guardiola must resolve to yield their throne. A failure that the Catalan coach assumed immediately, while designating the teams he now sees as the big favorites of the competition.
Real Madrid, natural favorite
“Real Madrid is always favorite for this trophy”recognized Guardiola, aware of the weight of Madrid history and know-how in this competition. With Kylian Mbappé at a conductor and a collective run under the leadership of Carlo Ancelotti, the Merengues appear more than ever as the team to beat. Accustomed to epic scenarios and exploits in the Champions League, the Madrid club has this unique aura which still places it among the serious contenders for the coronation.
But Guardiola refuses to limit the race to the title to a single pretender. For him, other clubs display this season a promising dynamic and could well create surprise during the next phases of the competition.
Guardiola shared his point of view on the contenders for the title this season.
Liverpool and Barcelona, solid challengers
Among the most formidable adversaries, Liverpool naturally imposes itself in the minds of the Spanish technician. “They have a remarkable season”, he underlines, highlighting the constancy and collective strength of the Reds. Under the direction of Arne Slot, Liverpool remains a formidable opponent, capable of competing with the greatest thanks to his intense pressing and his offensive efficiency. The Reds experience on the European scene, especially with executives accustomed to continental jousts, makes it a credible candidate for the coronation.
Barça, despite its recent disappointments on the European scene, also finds thanks to the eyes of Guardiola.
“Barcelona is incredible this season”,
He says, impressed by the resurgence of the Catalan club under the direction of Hansi Flick. With a rejuvenated workforce and a philosophy of gaming found, the Blaugranas hope to reconnect with their glorious European past.
Guardiola does not forget PSG
Finally, Paris Saint-Germain appears in the list of candidates for the title, carried by a Luis Enrique which tries to instill a new dynamic into the Parisian project. “PSG is underway”, Guardiola analysis, welcoming tactical adjustments and the growing impact of the Paris collective. The ambition of the club of the French capital remains unchanged: finally win this Champions League which has refused to him for so many years.
If Real Madrid seems to establish itself as the natural favorite, the fight for the European crown remains open. Guardiola, who now observes competition as a spectator, knows better than anyone that surprises are never to be excluded on the European scene. However, a certainty remains: the battle for the throne is more uncertain than ever.
