Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that Real Madrid has an advantage over his team in their upcoming Champions League play-off.
The two teams will face off in a two-legged tie, with the first leg set to take place at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, followed by the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in Spain.
Guardiola, who has plenty of experience at the Bernabeu from his time as a player and coach at Barcelona, said he would have preferred to play the second leg at home.
According to him, having home support in extra time or a penalty shootout would be a big help.
However, the Man City boss blamed himself and his team for the situation. He admitted that they did not perform well in the group stage, finishing 22nd in the standings. Because of this, they must play the second leg away.
City barely secured their spot in the knockouts, finishing just two places above the final qualification spot. They are also struggling in the Premier League, currently sitting in fifth place.
Now, they face a tough challenge against Real Madrid, a club with a strong Champions League history. Guardiola and his team will have to give their best to secure a place in the next round.