Every Word: Pep Guardiola’s pre-Real Madrid press conference

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed the media on the eve of his side’s Champions League semi-final first-leg clash with Real Madrid.

City will look to secure an advantage ahead of the return-leg in Manchester next week, with the prize for the victors being a showpiece final ticket against either AC Milan or Inter Milan in Istanbul, Turkey.

Last time out, Pep Guardiola’s side secured yet another crucial three points in the Premier League courtesy of a 2-1 win over Leeds United, maintaining their place as the league leaders despite Arsenal’s 0-2 win over Newcastle.

The weekend’s result only further increases Manchester City’s chances of securing an exceptional treble of silverware in the coming weeks, with an FA Cup final against Manchester United already in the calendar for next month.

Last season’s second-leg meeting, how close City are to winning the Champions League, and the opportunity for revenge were among the talking points raised during Pep Guardiola’s address to the media on Monday evening.

Here is every word from the boss at the Santiago Bernabeu!

On last season’s second leg vs Real Madrid

“It was tough obviously but at the end we made an exceptional game in Manchester. Really good here, not exceptional but it was not enough. We congratulate them and accept it.

“We arrive here with encouragement. The way we played was really good. We are not here for revenge, just another opportunity. One day we will win it. We come here this season to do it. It didn’t happen last year because we played Real in this competition.

“We were prepared last year too. We are the same managers, mainly the same players but completely different games. Difference is the second leg is at home.”

On how different this year’s tie is to last year’s meeting

“Quite similar to last year. We are still fighting for the Premier League. You have to perform to reach the final and we did it. We played exceptionally at home. It was okay here and could have been better. Football is 95 minutes. We congratulate Real and now we are back.”

On whether Manchester City are closer to winning the Champions League

“Seven years ago, we wanted to win the Champions League. Last season, it was the end of the world but here we are again. There are clubs who do crazy things to win the Champions League. Being stable is the most important thing. Winning it is important. We wanted it last year but Barcelona had to take a lot of time to win it. Important thing is we are trying to get better every year. The Premier League is so difficult to qualify for the Champions League.

“I have the feeling that after the first Premier League we wanted the Champions League. In two games we are trying to do a good one and that is what we have to do.”

On the danger Manchester City can pose in search for revenge

“We are not here for revenge just an opportunity. We get what we deserve. We did everything more than everything but that is football and it is not enough. We need to be better. The lesson is not to come here for revenge. We need to give the opportunity to reach the final in Manchester.”