The continued epic rivalry between Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and Real Madrid highlights the sustained European power of Real, even as the fixture increasingly becomes a battle between Guardiola and his managerial “disciples.”
This 49th meeting between Pep Guardiola and his great rival Real Madrid underlines the truth about the Champions League power balance.
Despite Man City’s 2023 title, it is Real who continue to hold the real power, which Guardiola “always calls Real ‘the kings of Europe’.” City remains yet to dominate as many predicted after their first European win.
The context shifts with City now perhaps in the “second bracket” of favourites, while Real remains in the top tier despite Xabi Alonso’s “awkward start.”
The match is now also a contest against Guardiola’s legacy, as the Champions League is populated by top managers—including Alonso—who are his former players or assistants.