Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed skepticism about his team's ability to secure their first Champions League title, despite being among the favorites for the competition.
The Premier League champions face Bundesliga side Schalke in the last 16, holding a 3-2 advantage from the first leg. Guardiola acknowledged the unpredictability of the tournament, citing recent upsets involving Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
"We are teenagers in this competition," Guardiola said. "It's not excuses, of course we want to win it. You have to dream high but accept there are other teams with quality and talent."
The manager highlighted the risks of complacency, referencing City's recent match against Schalke where they conceded two penalties and had Nicolas Otamendi sent off. "In domestic competition there is another game, but here there is not. When you make a mistake, they punish it," he added.
Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan remains uncertain about his future at the club, with his contract set to expire in 2020. "I'm 28 now, so my next contract will decide my career path," Gundogan said. Guardiola urged him to clarify his intentions, stating, "If he doesn't want to stay, he has to leave."
