Manchester City midfielder Rodri has issued a defiant message regarding the club's dwindling Premier League title chances, emphatically stating, "We're still alive in everything." This comes after City slipped nine points off the title pace following a 1-1 draw with West Ham on Saturday, a result that has intensified pressure on the reigning champions.
Champions League Challenge Looms Large
Ahead of Tuesday's crucial Champions League second leg against Real Madrid, where City trail 3-0 from the first match, Rodri emphasised the need for improvement. "We have to be more clinical," he admitted. "We have to take a step forward in that sense. I think we have the rest of it: the football, the ability to create chances. It's true that the other day we couldn't do it but we have to lift the team, because Tuesday is an important game, and above all the team believes."
Guardiola's Blunt Ultimatum to Players
Manager Pep Guardiola has delivered a stark ultimatum to his squad, challenging their mentality ahead of the Madrid clash. "If they don't believe, it's a problem. They are adults. They have good salaries," Guardiola remarked. "If they don't believe in that in the Champions League, go home, stay home. We have to try. What do we have to lose?"
He further questioned historical precedents, asking, "Madrid never came back in history? I don't know how many - 50 Champions League games, they never came back from 3-0? Of course, it's a tough result. But we have to try, for respect for the people, for fans, for our job, you know?"
Premier League Hopes Still Flickering
Despite the significant gap, Rodri pointed to factors that could revive City's domestic campaign. "In the end they still have to come to our place," he noted, referring to Arsenal's upcoming visit to the Etihad Stadium next month. "We have a game in hand as well. So, well, things happen in football."
He acknowledged the difficulty but reaffirmed the team's resolve: "It's true, I'm not going to deny that it's difficult. But we're going to be there until the end. That's basically the team's mentality."
Focus on Improvement Across All Fronts
Guardiola stressed the importance of continuous improvement, with multiple competitions still in play. "And after, eight games are left, we have to accept it and finish the season the better. The best possible, because still we have tomorrow, we have the Premier League, we have the FA Cup. We have the other one (Carabao Cup final). Improve, improve," he urged.
He concluded with a forward-looking statement: "As much you improve quicker, it will be better for the present and for the future, for next season. This is what you have to do. I like my team, still. I know for (some) people today modern football is not... but I still like it. So, until the end, we'll continue. And next season, we'll be back."
