Players stress importance of unity and describe how war affects their preparations for the tournament
Latest editorial
Man City are so good they simply must target Champions League trophy
DOM SMITH analyses City’s stellar performance against their Mancunian rivals at the weekend, and talks to Pep Guardiola about the importance of obtaining European glory during his tenure
World class: Man City boss Pep Guardiola (centre)
KEVIN DE BRUYNE spoke a lot of sense. Ahead of lighting up the Manchester derby with two goals and an assist, the Belgian ace admitted last week that winning the Premier League will always mean more to him than winning the Champions League. The one significant side note is that he hasn’t won the Champions League of course. At least not yet.
De Bruyne was arguing that players should not be judged predominantly on how many trophies they won — a sentiment someone like Harry Kane would no doubt agree with. But the trophies that should hold the most weight, he said, are league titles.
To win the Premier League you have to impress over an entire season. To win the Champions League you need a few famous nights and perhaps a sprinkling of luck. A fair point.
Similar stories
Pep Guardiola leaving City marks the end of an era of peak modern football, says JAMES NALTON
Forward looks to put injury frustration behind her to spearhead WSL campaign
Klopp leads tributes as sports world mourns tragic loss of player and his brother