“Maybe I’ve missed a meeting, but Claudio hasn’t said anything to us”.
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But Sterling, who moved from Liverpool in 2015 for 49 million pounds ($64 million), is flourishing under Guardiola, whose style of management appears to suit the player.
Pep Guardiola’s success at Manchester City will be judged by him winning City’s only remaining title- the UEFA Champions League and anything less will be deemed a failure.
“We travelled with young guys (Angus Gunn, Tosin Adarabioyo and Angel Tasende) who may stay out of the selection, and I prefer that to be the young guys than Yaya Toure. I think I can still help the club”.
“The ability is there, we know he has that, but just as importantly he has character – and that is one of the most important qualities you can have as a goalkeeper”. “The ideal thing for us is for both to continue”. Goals from David Silva and Sergio Aguero put them two goals up at the break, despite the Argentine missing two – yes two – penalties. Shots from Aleksandar Kolarov and Nolito which hit the woodwork were among other numerous chances City created. I do not really play as a No?10, more as a free eight. “I did have doubts about if I could perform, though”.
Zabaleta, however, was not taking anything for granted ahead of next week’s second leg, even though it should be a formality. The former Liverpool forward was fast, confident and very risky as he tore into Steaua’s ramshackle defence.
“Of course this was a big step forward to being in the Champions League this season but we need to finish it off now next week”.
The Barca boss said: “I understand the rumour mill is attractive but I don’t want to and mustn’t get involved in all that”.
So despite acknowledging he has no future with the club, he is only looking for a loan move.
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But it’s clear that his 10-year career at City is coming to an end after Guardiola once again preferred Willy Caballero in goal.
