Grimaldo surprises Manchester City!

Lineups ready!

Manchester City returns to the Champions League with the obligation to regain ground after a turbulent week in the Premier League. The loss to Newcastle United not only left the team seven points off the top, but also sparked an off-field controversy that has dominated the buildup to the clash with Bayer Leverkusen. Meanwhile, City’s injury list continues to shape Pep Guardiola’s planning as he faces one of the most dynamic sides in the competition.

The German club arrives at a delicate moment for the European champions, who need stability, victories and a statement performance to change the narrative of recent days.

Guardiola apologizes and shifts the focus back to the match

After viral footage circulated on social media, Pep Guardiola opened his pre-match press conference with a public apology for his reaction toward a camera operator following the final whistle at St. James’ Park. The Catalan coach admitted he felt “embarrassed” by the gesture and reminded that, even after managing more than a thousand matches, he is still human and makes mistakes.

The incident occurred amid tension involving Guardiola, Bruno Guimarães and several Newcastle players in a heated ending marked by controversial refereeing decisions that City considered crucial: a prior foul in the 2-1, and two possible penalties on Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol that neither the referee nor VAR reviewed.

In total, the Spaniard has played just eight matches this season. His absence raises fresh questions about how City will maintain order in midfield against an aggressive, vertical and high-tempo Leverkusen.

The Etihad is gearing up for a crucial night: Manchester City must rediscover its best version and respond against an opponent arriving without fear. The Champions League won’t wait, and Guardiola’s side cannot afford another slip.