Pep Guardiola fires Champions League warning to Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola joked that Real Madrid need to watch their backs after Manchester City won their first UEFA Champions League title on Saturday.

The Citizens' long quest to finally conquer Europe came to an end in Istanbul, beating Inter 1-0 in this season's final.

The Nerazzurri made life difficult for Man City throughout the game at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium but they were beaten by a thunderous strike by Rodri in the 68th minute.

Man City have now become the sixth English side to win the European Cup after Manchester United, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Chelsea.

But in his post-match press conference, Guardiola joked that the club's new aim is to topple Real Madrid, who have won the competition on 14 occasions.

"Just 13 Champions Leagues away or behind them, just 13. So be careful Real Madrid because we are on our way," Guardiola teased.

"So if you slip a little bit, we will catch you."

Man City have battled Real Madrid in some classic Champions League encounters over the last two seasons.

Guardiola's men beat Los Blancos 4-3 in a thrilling first leg of their semi-final in 2021/22, but were beaten in extraordinary circumstances back at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Riyad Mahrez gave Man City the lead on the night, but a quick-fire brace from Rodrygo in stoppage time levelled the tie on aggregate. Karim Benzema's goal from the penalty spot in extra-time sent Real Madrid through to the final, where they would go on to beat Liverpool.

This season was a completely different story. Nearly identical screamers from Vinicius Junior and Kevin De Bruyne saw the two sides play out a 1-1 draw in Spain, before Man City thrashed the reigning champions 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium.

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