Manchester City begin their defence of the UEFA Champions League tonight against Red Star Belgrade at the Etihad Stadium.
Pep Guardiola will be looking to win back-to-back Champions League titles for the first time in his managerial career, but will have to do so without the influential Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte after their summer exits.
Nevertheless, Manchester City are arguably stronger following the marquee arrivals of Josko Gvardiol and Jeremy Doku.
Ahead of tonight’s clash, one source from Manchester City has shared a comment…
What’s the story?
Well – thanks to the Telegraph – we have been given some insight about how those in the boardroom at Manchester City view the European stage right now.
One unnamed senior source from the Etihad Stadium was quoted as saying: “We’d like to now replicate that (domestic success) in the Champions League.”
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The anonymous source added: “It’s definitely our aim. We think the mark of great European teams is having that success consistently in Europe.”
Manchester City aiming for European dominance – and they can certainly achieve it
After seven Premier League titles wins since 2011, three FA Cup glories and six League Cup successes, Manchester City are now aiming to hoover up everything in sight on the European stage after finally winning the UEFA Champions League.
That quest has started well with a UEFA Super Cup win, and the Citizens are already outright favourites to win this season’s UEFA Champions League after last term’s remarkable treble.
However, knockout football is a different animal to the Premier League, and one moment of madness can often send the strongest team home early – therefore, focus is imperative for Guardiola’s side, and nobody can be underestimated.
Nevertheless, the overriding positive is that Manchester City’s treble winners are still a fairly young side, so there is no reason why this successful cycle will end anytime soon.
The additions of Gvardiol and Doku – both aged 21 – have future proofed the Citizens in key areas, while Rodri, Ederson, Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez and Ruben Dias are all arguably yet to enter their prime.
Whatever happens this season, the future is looking incredibly bright for Manchester City.