Guardiola Defies Doubters: The Surprising Stats Behind Man City’s Champions League Breakthrough

Pep Guardiola’s reaction to Manchester City’s hard-fought 2-0 win at Villarreal was anything but ordinary — he brushed off last season’s shaky away form and confidently declared that his Champions League stats “are not bad.” And hey, who can blame him? Erling Haaland continued his relentless streak by netting in his 12th consecutive match, boosting his tally to 24 goals across club and country this season, with Bernardo Silva adding a neat double just before the break. As City cruised through their ninth unbeaten outing this term, it was clear that this performance wasn’t just about three points; it was a statement. Battling at Estadio de la Ceramica against a formidable Villarreal side — renowned for their European pedigree and steered astutely by Marcelino — this victory sends Pep’s men climbing up to fifth in a fiercely competitive group. Despite early doubts and a rocky past season, the team’s spirit and style seem to be finding their groove again. And while Haaland’s spotlight moment was well-earned, it was young English prospect Rico Lewis who caught Pep’s eye, impressing with his footballing intelligence and composure. All eyes now turn to Premier League action, with a trip to Aston Villa on the horizon—but for now, City fans can savor this crucial European breakthrough. LEARN MORE

Pep Guardiola insisted his “numbers are not bad” in the Champions League after ending a 12-month winless away run in the competition with a 2-0 victory over Villarreal on Tuesday.

Erling Haaland scored for the 12th game in a row – his 24th for club and country this season – before Bernardo Silva doubled the lead shortly before half-time.

City saw out the rest of the game in fairly comfortable fashion at Estadio de la Ceramica as Guardiola’s side made it nine matches unbeaten in all competitions this term.

The result moves the Premier League side up to fifth in the table of Europe’s elite club competition and the performance was one that pleased the City boss.

“It was really good, after I was a little disappointed in [the 2-2 draw against] Monaco. Today, to play a team in the Spanish league is so difficult, I know from my experience.

“And Villarreal in the last, I don’t know the last 23 times they have been 17 or 18 times in Europe. That shows how good they are and how many good things they do. The manager, Marcelino, is a top, top class manager.”

When asked about City’s recent dismal away record in Europe, Guardiola gently hit back, admitting last season was a disappointment but that overall his team’s record has been strong.

He said: “Last season was not good but I think our numbers in the Champions League in the last year is not bad. Personally, my numbers in the Champions League are not bad. But last season was a difficult season for us.

“But the vibe and the way the team is behaving and playing, it makes me feel fine.”

Despite Haaland once again grabbing the headlines, the City manager also singled out praise for English youngster Rico Lewis, who provided the assist for the Norwegian’s goal.

“I’m pretty sure that 90% of the people when they see Rico [Lewis] line up, the said ‘what is the reason?’” added Guardiola.

“I love that player. These type of players, I adore them. Defensively and offensively, he is beyond intelligent.

“I’m really pleased for him in this game.”

Next up for City is a trip to Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.