Pep Guardiola was right when Real Madrid conceded four goals at Girona ahead of their Champions League clash with Man City.
Pep Guardiola proved himself fresh after Real Madrid were humiliated in La Liga on Tuesday night. Girona's defeat of Los Blancos deals a heavy blow to their waning championship hopes, providing the worst possible preparation for the Champions League semi-final against Manchester City in May.
Real Madrid looked lost without Thibaut Courtois as Carlo Ancelotti's men suffered a 4-2 defeat at the Estadi Montilivi.
Valentin Castellanos, on loan to Girona from Man City's sister club New York City FC, was frantic, scoring all four goals in a performance that would go down in history. The fall caused many to fear what Erling Haaland could do in 180 minutes if Castellanos could do such damage overnight.
But above all, it proved that Guardiola's eye for talent was as good as his tactical understanding.
Sixteen months ago, the Man City manager announced that he believes Castellanos is ready to enter European football.
Valentin Castellanos scored 4 goals against Real Madrid.
Valentin Castellanos scored 4 goals against Real Madrid. (Image:
Getty)
During his December 2021 press conference, Guardiola said:
"I think he's a guy who's going to take the next step in Europe.
"What I saw when the scouts spoke to me, I knew he was a quality player and ready to take the next step to Europe, and we'll see where."
Castellanos decided to join Girona last summer on a season-long loan after making 106 appearances in the MLS.
The 24-year-old forward has made 31 appearances this season, scoring 12 goals and providing one assist.
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Pep Guardiola wants to meet Valentin Castellanos in Europe in 2021.
Pep Guardiola wants to meet Valentin Castellanos in Europe in 2021. (Image:
Getty)
According to reports, Guardiola licked his lips while watching the match against the European champions.
City will know that if they get past Real Madrid after easily beating Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals, they will be strong contenders for their first Champions League title in June.
AC Milan or Inter Milan will await the final in Istanbul after two intense matches at the San Siro.
Real Madrid may have overtaken Chelsea in the last eight, but Man City would be a completely different proposition.
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