The FA Cup victory on Sunday was Manchester City’s second silverware this season. While the cup victory was a huge moment, City have a chance to create history by winning the treble when they face Italian giants Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final. This match between the two clubs will be very crucial for their respective history.
However, for City, this final is going to be more than crucial. Despite being one of the most successful clubs in Europe, the only blemish on City’s record has been their inability to win the Champions League. Many have come, and many have tried, but no one could lead City to European glory.
The closest MCFC came to winning the Champions League was when current manager Pep Guardiola led the club to the finals in 2021 against Chelsea Football Club. However, that final was a disappointment for Pep and co, as City went on to lose the match by a score of 1-0, courtesy of a goal by Kai Havertz.
This memory City have of losing the Champions League final is indeed a bad one. But, the team now seems committed to overcoming it by winning the Champions League this season. Ahead of the game against Inter Milan, City midfielder Rodri said that the team are fully prepared for the test ahead. He said:
"“Pep said you will not be ‘big, big’ if you don’t win in Europe. It’s the exam we have to pass again. It’s another final and we are ready. I’m going to push the guys to be ourselves, be confident, try our best and fight for the final.”"
Based on the words of Rodri, it seems as if City are fully prepared to face Inter Milan. While Inter failed to win the Serie A this season, they have done very well in Europe, and have proved themselves to be a massive force. On match day, it will be interesting to see how City play Inter Milan.
Pep Guardiola is on the verge of creating history with Manchester City
Back in the day, the Premier League was considered to be one of the most competitive leagues in the world. While this is still true and the Premier League is competitive, Pep Guardiola has changed the way how people look at England’s top division. The success of Guardiola has made many football fans believe that the Spanish is one of the greatest managers the world has seen.
In seven seasons at the club, Guardiola has won five Premier League titles, four league cups, and two FA Cups. While he is yet to taste European success with City, that could change on June 10th, 2023. If City manage to win the treble by beating Inter Milan in the Champions League final, Guardiola would certainly go down as one of the greatest managers of all time.