Josko Gvardiol does not recall the last time Manchester City played RB Leipzig fondly.
The Croatia international was then part of a Leipzig defence that was ripped apart by City’s offence in March, when Erling Haaland scored five goals in a 7-0 rout in the Champions League last 16.
Eight months later, as the two sides prepare to meet in the competition’s penultimate round of Group G matches, Gvardiol, who is now part of City’s defence, knows he won’t have to worry about a repeat night of anguish.
At least not from Haaland’s boots.
“I’m happy to be his teammate,” Gvardiol stated when asked if he preferred playing against or with Haaland.
“It wasn’t just Haaland; it was the first team on the pitch (last season), and it was a tough game.” As a centre back, I was looking forward to facing Haaland, but things didn’t go well.
“In 60 minutes, he scored five goals.” “I was relieved to see him subbed off.”
City went on to win the Champions League for the first time, and they are off to a terrific start in their attempt to retain the championship.
They have a perfect record in the group, and a point on Tuesday would put them ahead of Leipzig, who are also guaranteed a place in the knockout phase.
Haaland surpassed the 50-goal mark in the Premier League in record time over the weekend, and Gvardiol says it’s amazing to watch the Norwegian at work.
“At the start of the game, he is nowhere, then he appears and scores a hat-trick.” “I don’t understand what he’s done, but I like him,” the 21-year-old remarked.
With the news that John Stones is close to returning after being out since early November, City manager Pep Guardiola may have some more defensive options shortly.
“John Stones is improving. Not to play, just for a few minutes. “I’m very close to returning,” he remarked.
During Tuesday’s game, Guardiola stated that the aim was for his team to finish first.
“We must win or draw.” Congratulations to Leipzig for completing the first step for both teams. Finishing first is important since it is prestigious and means playing the second leg of the last 16 at home. “Not decisive, but a slight advantage,” he explained.