Man City stars set for seven-figure bonuses despite Champions League exit

Manchester City stars could bag bonuses worth millions despite their heart-wrenching Champions League exit.

The reigning European champions fell at the quarter-final stage against Real Madrid. Following a 3-3 draw at the Bernabeu, the two sides battled to a 1-1 stalemate back in Manchester.

The Spanish giants were eventually successful in the resultant penalty shootout. Antonio Rudiger scored the winning spot-kick for Carlo Ancelotti’s men.

Despite Man City’s disappointment, players could potentially console themselves with a huge bonus. According to Mail Online, the club’s stars are in line for seven-figure bonuses should they secure City a spot in the Champions League for next season.

That already looks like being a formality for Pep Guardiola's side. They currently sit top of the table and 13 points clear of fifth-placed Tottenham.

With six games of the season remaining, it means that all City need to do to secure a spot at Europe’s top table is win a maximum of two more matches. Any bonuses are negotiated on a player-by-player basis.

It is thought that City’s lowest-earning star would bank around £200k for a Champions League spot, while others could earn in excess of £1million. Some clauses are also based on appearances and minutes played.

Speaking on his side’s exit, Guardiola said: “Congratulations to Real Madrid - they defended so deep with incredible solidarity. We did everything. I don’t have any regrets about what we have done.

“Always as managers, we try to create more and concede less in every single game because that helps to win. We did everything, defensively and offensively.

“They made a good goal. There were two, three, four transitions but it is normal at that level with the quality they have. We played exceptionally in all departments. Unfortunately, we could not win. It is what it is.”

“It is what it is, sometimes you win penalties, sometimes not,” he added. “The way we played, we should have done it before. We did not convert the chances we had and we defended the transition really well. Everyone was at a high level. To beat Real Madrid, we had to perform our best. We were our best but it was not enough.”

City are back in action this weekend as they look to secure another trophy. They take on Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals - and will take on either Manchester United or Coventry should they beat the Blues.