Pep Guardiola sets sights on ‘remarkable achievement’ as Man City aim for historic FA Cup victory

Following their victory over Arsenal in the League Cup prior to the international break, Guardiola is eager for his squad to sustain their momentum as they strive to add the FA Cup and Premier League titles to their collection this season.

“Once you’ve completed one, it’s on to the next,” Guardiola expressed to the media on Friday.

“Tomorrow presents us with the opportunity to achieve an incredible feat, reaching eight semi-finals in a row. This has never been done before… it’s a prestigious competition and a particularly tough opponent for all of us: Liverpool.”

Since Guardiola’s arrival in 2016, City has been a dominant force in English football, capturing six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and five League Cups. However, Liverpool has consistently posed challenges for him throughout his coaching tenure.

In his managerial career, Guardiola has secured just nine wins and seven draws from 26 encounters against Liverpool, marking his lowest win rate against any Premier League side.

This season, City has emerged victorious against Liverpool twice in the Premier League, though they had to rally for a late comeback to clinch a 2-1 win at Anfield back in February.

“Time and again, they have been our fiercest rivals, the biggest challenge… featuring top contenders and world-class players,” Guardiola noted. “We must perform at the same level as we did against Arsenal if we wish to advance.”

Guardiola also took the opportunity to commend Liverpool’s forward Mohamed Salah, who has indicated he will leave the club this summer.

“Absolutely. One of the all-time greats. His statistics and consistency speak for themselves. What a player… a true legend, not just for Liverpool but for the entire Premier League,” Guardiola remarked.

However, Guardiola refrained from discussing his own midfielder Rodri, who has expressed openness to a transfer to Real Madrid once his contract with City expires at the end of this season.

“No idea, no opinion… I’m aware of the club’s intentions and what I believe his intentions are, but beyond that, I cannot comment,” Guardiola stated.