“I prefer the old” – Josko Gvardiol laments new Champions League format as Manchester City risks ELIMINATION on Wednesday

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol opened up about his views on the UCL format, amid the club's poor run this season.

“I prefer the old” – Josko Gvardiol laments new Champions League format as Manchester City risks ELIMINATION on Wednesday

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol stated his preference for the old UCL format (via YouTube)

Manchester City full-back Josko Gvardiol expressed frustration with the new Champions League eight-round format. Many fans also does not like this format while preferring the old one with four teams in a group. His comments come amid Man City’s struggles in the new UCL group stage.

The new UCL format has been a hit and a miss, with many expressing displeasure with it. It features a new 36-team league competition, with each team being made to play eight matches, over the six they played previously. Moreover, the Round of 16 is determined by their position on the table, with the first eight teams qualifying automatically. Meanwhile, the next 16 make it to the play-off rounds.

YouTube video

The 2022-23 UCL winners, Manchester City, fell into the drop zone of the Champions League table after a disappointing defeat to PSG. City were humbled 4-2 away from home, leaving them 25th on the table with just eight points. They are two points away from the play-off qualification places. City need a win against Club Brugge to make it through to the next round.

With Manchester City under pressure, defender Josko Gvardiol commented upon the UCL format, and the new-found changes.

I prefer the old one because you can prepare better when you play the teams twice and make the best out of the situation, but I think they’ll keep this one so I’ll have to get used to it.

Josko Gvardiol on new UCL format (H/T Hayters.com)

Additionally, the 23-year-old Croatian defender also praised January signing Abdukodir Khusanov, despite his struggling on his debut for the club. The pair will hope to form a formidable partnership to help City defeat Club Brugge in their upcoming game.

Pep Guardiola speaks out on Manchester City’s ’embarassing’ UCL campaign this season

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola commented upon the club’s poor run in the UCL this season. They have lost three out of their seven matches till now. Man City is on the verge of an early exit, which would make it their first knockout-stage miss since 2013.

Pep Guardiola on Manchester City
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola spoke out amid the club’s poor UCL form (via BBC)

Man City face Club Brugge in their final UCL league stage encounter. It would be a tough game for the English side as Brugge is on a 20-game unbeaten run. Pep Guardiola responded to questions whether the club would face embarrassment on an early exit. He hoped to answer them after the match. Guardiola admitted that his side was as good throughout the season, and is paying the price for it.

Additionally, the Spaniard also provided updates on John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne‘s fitness as well. Both players most recently made their return from injury. However, Ballon d’Or winner Rodri remains a major absence. It remains to be seen if City can turn their season around in Europe.