How do you prepare to overturn a 3-0 deficit against Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16?
If you're Pep Guardiola, give your players a day off.
"The players are at home with their families today. Then they will send each other messages on WhatsApp and tomorrow we will see each other," the Manchester City coach said on Monday, the day before his team plays the second leg against the 15-time European champions.
The match takes place on Tuesday at 21:00 PM at the Etihad.
In fact, Guardiola appeared calm as he spoke about the "huge" task facing Manchester City after their first-leg defeat in Madrid. Federico Valverde scored three goals in Madrid's impressive win last Wednesday.
also
Forgetting the rivalry, Guardiola thanks Mourinho: Perfect strategy
"I don't have a specific plan, other than just trying," Guardiola said.
"It has to be a perfect match in many, many aspects - with our people, with the referees' decisions. Many, many things have to be very good," added one of the best coaches in the world.
Guardiola added that this is a football match and that anything can happen in football.
"First we have to try to win the game and then see what happens. Most of the players are new to this experience and we are not the group we were for many years. But at the same time it is an incredible experience and opportunity to try."
According to Guardiola, creating chances will not be a problem. The decisive factor, says the City coach, will be the way the team defends.
He has cited some incredible Manchester City comebacks in an attempt to motivate the team.
also
Guardiola will weigh up the players and then decide on the formation
"There's not much to say. It's like a final. It's the perfect match for a comeback. I've already made the selection. I know which team will start tomorrow. I may have a doubt, but the rest is clear."
Guardiola has announced that the team will have light training on Tuesday morning.
