Pep Guardiola insisted his “numbers are not bad” in the Champions League after ending a 12-month winless away run in the competition with a 2-0 victory over Villarreal on Tuesday.
Erling Haaland scored for the 12th game in a row – his 24th for club and country this season – before Bernardo Silva doubled the lead shortly before half-time.
City saw out the rest of the game in fairly comfortable fashion at Estadio de la Ceramica as Guardiola’s side made it nine matches unbeaten in all competitions this term.
The result moves the Premier League side up to fifth in the table of Europe’s elite club competition and the performance was one that pleased the City boss.
“It was really good, after I was a little disappointed in [the 2-2 draw against] Monaco. Today, to play a team in the Spanish league is so difficult, I know from my experience.
“And Villarreal in the last, I don’t know the last 23 times they have been 17 or 18 times in Europe. That shows how good they are and how many good things they do. The manager, Marcelino, is a top, top class manager.”
When asked about City’s recent dismal away record in Europe, Guardiola gently hit back, admitting last season was a disappointment but that overall his team’s record has been strong.
He said: “Last season was not good but I think our numbers in the Champions League in the last year is not bad. Personally, my numbers in the Champions League are not bad. But last season was a difficult season for us.
“But the vibe and the way the team is behaving and playing, it makes me feel fine.”
Despite Haaland once again grabbing the headlines, the City manager also singled out praise for English youngster Rico Lewis, who provided the assist for the Norwegian’s goal.
“I’m pretty sure that 90% of the people when they see Rico [Lewis] line up, the said ‘what is the reason?’” added Guardiola.
“I love that player. These type of players, I adore them. Defensively and offensively, he is beyond intelligent.
“I’m really pleased for him in this game.”
Next up for City is a trip to Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.
