Manchester City have quickly moved on from their weekend defeat to Manchester United, with Pep Guardiola insisting the club’s full attention is now on securing automatic qualification in the Champions League.
City suffered a 2-0 loss at Old Trafford on Saturday, a result Guardiola accepted without complaint. Speaking two days later in Norway ahead of City’s Champions League clash with Bodo/Glimt, the manager made it clear the derby was already behind them.
Guardiola acknowledged that United were the better side and said there was little point dwelling on the result. Instead, City are focused on their strong position in Europe, where they currently sit fourth in the standings with 13 points. Victory against Bodo/Glimt would put them firmly on course for a top-eight finish and direct entry into the last 16.
The City boss compared the current situation with last season’s campaign, when his side were under pressure at the same stage. He recalled how City collapsed after leading Paris Saint-Germain in Paris, eventually needing a final-day win to reach the playoffs, before PSG went on to lift the trophy. This time, he believes City are in a far healthier position and sees no reason to look back.
Preparations for the match in Norway have been slightly different due to the artificial pitch at Aspmyra Stadium, with City training at the venue itself. Guardiola explained the session was designed to help players adjust to how the ball behaves on the surface, stressing that adapting quickly to unfamiliar conditions is part of being successful.
Guardiola also confirmed that Phil Foden, who picked up a hand injury against United, has suffered broken bones but will be available to play with protective support.
City’s injury-hit defence received a boost with the signing of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. Guardiola praised the 25-year-old centre-back, highlighting his versatility, experience and long-term value to the squad. With several defenders currently sidelined, the City manager described Guehi’s arrival as extremely important and thanked the club for completing the deal.
