After his team’s loss to Sporting Lisbon, Pep Guardiola took a jab at Manchester United, reminding the city’s bitter rivals that they will not be participating in the Champions League this year.
Sporting thrashed City in the Portuguese capital, causing them to lose for the third time in a row. Ruben Amorim, United’s new manager, orchestrated the 4-1 triumph.
With Sporting’s thrilling victory over the Premier League champions creating a lot of enthusiasm among United supporters awaiting his arrival in Manchester, the 39-year-old managed his final home game before formally taking over at Old Trafford on November 11.
Tuesday offered more proof that United may have finally chosen the perfect man to guide them back to the top, as Amorim is considered one of the best young coaches in Europe.
However, United has a lot of work ahead of them since they are currently in 13th place in the Premier League after winning just three of their ten league games this season.
The season’s first Manchester derby at the Etihad will bring Amorim and Guardiola together once more on December 15. The rematch is presently scheduled for April 25.
Over the past two seasons, the Manchester rivals have also faced off in the FA Cup final, with both teams winning.
However, Guardiola quickly reminded United following the loss in Lisbon that the two managers will not be meeting in Europe this season.
In the Premier League and possibly the FA Cup, we will play them twice. “It is not possible in the Champions League,” Guardiola stated during a press conference.
Then we’ll see. Every boss I encounter teaches me something. I also think about Ruben. However, I am worried about getting us back to our best, which is what we shall attempt to achieve.
United barely managed to finish in eighth place the previous season, which would have prevented them from playing in Europe this year.
