Pep Guardiola aims for the FA Cup following Manchester City’s comeback victory against Plymouth Argyle.
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Pep Guardiola has declared that Manchester City will now “fight” for the FA Cup following their 3-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle on Saturday evening. The win sees City advance to the quarter-finals, with the cup now representing their best chance of silverware after their recent exit from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid.
City found themselves trailing after Maksym Talovierov’s goal just before half-time. However, the tide turned when Nico O’Reilly equalised in added time of the first half. O’Reilly then netted a second goal in the 76th minute, before veteran playmaker Kevin De Bruyne sealed the win with a late third.
Guardiola was quick to commend Plymouth for their spirited performance, stating, “Big compliments to Plymouth for making our job so difficult. They were incredibly organised, but we played a good game – really good. We conceded a goal but we were so solid. I’m really pleased with the game we played.”
Looking ahead to the next round, Guardiola expressed his determination, saying, “No team has been in the FA Cup semi-finals five or six times in a row. Now we will fight, see the draw and see what happens.”
The City boss also took a moment to praise his goalscorers, particularly the 19-year-old O’Reilly. “It looks like our left-backs score our goals. He’s a different type of academy player. He’s a big presence and can play in three or four positions. I’m really happy for him; he helped us a lot.”
Guardiola has recently hinted that De Bruyne may be allowed to leave when his contract expires this summer, suggesting that the Belgian is among the club’s all-time greats. “Maybe one of the best three to five players in this club’s history,” he remarked. “Every time he performs well, I’m the happiest man on the planet. He’s given many, many things to the team and to me, and he’s played really, really well today.”
In the post-match press conference, Guardiola also provided an update on midfielder Rodri, who has been sidelined with an ACL injury. The City manager revealed that Rodri has begun individual training and could make a return before the end of the season.
“The fans must know that they are not the only ones who are excited,” Guardiola said. “It’s five and a half, six months after the international break. But one step at a time; we don’t have to make a stupid decision and rush his return. It’s good.”
“Still, he’s not close to coming back, but he was touching the ball today in the locker room, making touches with the players. He feels confident, he feels happier. I could not expect before, but I think before the end of the season, in the Club World Cup or in the Premier League, maybe it’s going to happen.”
As City gear up for the next stage of the FA Cup, all eyes will be on their quest for glory, with Guardiola’s men determined to make the most of their remaining opportunities this season.