‘All roads are difficult:’ Guardiola discusses Man City’s Atletico Madrid challenge & makes FA Cup prediction

Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts on Manchester City being drawn against Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, but wants to remain focused on their FA Cup tie with Southampton this weekend.

The Sky Blues will host the first-leg of their last eight clash with Atletico on April 5 or 6, with the return leg a week later at the Metropolitano.

However, City first have to travel to Southampton in the quarter-final of the FA Cup on Sunday with Guardiola stressing the clash at St Mary’s shouldn’t be overlooked.

“How do you ask me [this] when these six years we play every game like it’s the last game of our lives,” Guardiola said when asked if his team remained motivated for the FA Cup.

“I know how difficult it will be away at Southampton. I’m sorry, I trust a lot my team, my players. I know it looks like everything is gone but I trust a lot my players to arrive in every competition we are in.

“Like at Southampton, Crystal Palace. I want to do it with these players, I wouldn’t change one single player for the next two months.”

Nevertheless, the topic of the Sky Blues’ Champions League last eight tie against Diego Simeone’s team was discussed.

“What could I say?” Guardiola paused before assessing City’s upcoming game with Atletico.

“They went through an incredibly tough group stage and then over 180 minutes against United they were better.

“In Madrid they were fantastic, and again here [in Manchester]. It’s a team that are what they are and they are able to avoid what you are.

“You try to impose your game, but sometimes it is difficult.

“Playing the second leg away is more complicated. But these are the best eight teams in Europe. All roads are difficult.”