Guardiola admits tiredness behind cancelling City training before Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola said he gave his Manchester City players the day off 24 hours before the Champions League last-16 second leg with Real Madrid. City lost the first leg 3-0 in Madrid and must attempt a comeback.

He cancelled the usual pre-match session and plans to train on the day of the game. It is the third time this season he has done so, after matches against Borussia Dortmund and Fulham.

Guardiola cited tiredness from the away trip to Spain and the 1-1 draw at West Ham as factors. "Today in the modern day, training doesn't improve a lot," he said.

Captain Bernardo Silva said the break can help players "to sleep better, to stay at home one more day, to free a bit our minds and come back tomorrow, stronger and ready for the game." Guardiola added: "We have to play a perfect game to turn the tie around." Madrid will be boosted by the return of Kylian Mbappe for the second leg.

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