Rodrygo Admits Facing Manchester City is a Challenge Ahead of Champions League Showdown

 Real Madrid and Manchester City are set to collide in a blockbuster UEFA Champions League clash, and ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has confessed his unease about facing the reigning European champions.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of the first-leg showdown at the Etihad Stadium, the Brazilian forward was candid about his feelings toward Pep Guardiola’s side.

“I don’t like playing against Manchester City that much,” Rodrygo admitted, via Real Madrid’s official website. “Nobody really enjoys facing City, just like they don’t enjoy facing us.”

Manchester City has proven to be a formidable opponent for Real Madrid in recent years, with the two sides producing intense battles in the knockout stages. The English club famously dismantled Madrid 4-0 in last season’s semi-final second leg at the Etihad, ending Los Blancos’ hopes of securing another Champions League triumph.

Despite acknowledging the difficulty of playing against Guardiola’s team, Rodrygo remains optimistic.

“I’ve had both good and bad experiences against them,” he reflected. “But I hope this game will be one of the good ones. I feel in great form right now, and I believe I can be decisive in helping my team.”

Manchester City enters this fixture under slightly unusual circumstances, as they are not overwhelming favorites—a rare scenario under Guardiola. The English champions have faced injury setbacks, dips in form, and a more competitive Premier League title race. However, they remain a force to be reckoned with, especially in European competitions.

With both teams boasting immense quality and a history of thrilling encounters, this match promises to be a must-watch affair in the quest for Champions League glory.