Pep Guardiola has reduced Manchester City's first ever Champions League title to a mistake by Romelu Lukaku
Pep Guardiola aimed a sly dig at Romelu Lukaku in a staunch defence of Xavi, who has been subject to criticism after Manchester City won the Champions League. The 29-year-old striker didn't exactly cover himself in glory in Istanbul, denying Inter Milan from a late equaliser – not once, but twice.
In what could be his final game for the Nerazzurri, Lukaku blocked a strike from Federico Dimarco in the dying embers. Then, shortly after, Ederson palmed away a gilt-edged header from the Belgium international.
"First of all thank you to all the Inter fans for the love and support throughout the season," wrote the Chelsea striker. "You guys stood by us through every moment and personally I want to thank you for that.
"It wasn’t meant to be. We gave it all. That’s a s*** feeling for all of us that love this beautiful club… But this club has hunger and we will fight to hopefully reach that moment of glory one day."
Speaking to Spanish media, Guardiola has now given his account of the dramatic events which saw Champions League misery flash before City. As quoted by Reshad Rahman, the 52-year-old reduced the club's major honour to a mistake by Lukaku in a staunch defence of Xavi.
"Give Xavi a little time, it took us 8 years to win the UCL," said Guardiola. "I’m European champion because a striker missed a clear header from 3 yards away.
"Xavi knows it better than I do - when you win La Liga, you've been the best team. He played group-stages with his defenders injured and now the defence is his team’s strength."
He added: "Barça has a great coach who knows the club and how the project is going. He has won La Liga and hopefully he will be there for many years. When Xavi decides he has finished his stage, Busi or someone else will come. Like me, my stage as Barça coach is done."
SAH7
216
lol every one saying that he blocked the header so was there were 100% chance that block is going to be a goal ?? I don't think so and secondly what about his shots that were saved? still he was trying
Jamescrouse
165
the other way to take his statement, is, there is some degree of luck involved, skill puts you there sometimes, but sometimes you just need that Lil bit of luck, and his luck was a change that should have been taken, nothing personal, every player has missed guilt edged changes
jhaeswaggz
164
You ppl really do make it look as though lukaku intentionally blocked that shot or missed his header. What’s crazy is, prior to him coming on they barely had any chances on goal. Give the guy a little respect.
Marckayyy
98
All Respect to Pep but putting all Blames on Lukaku is a bit harsh it happens this is football