Sane makes CL promise – but only if City beat Liverpool

Joe Williams

Leroy Sane admits the Champions League will be “really difficult” to win but he gives Manchester City a “good chance”.

The Citizens have been drawn against fellow Premier League outfit Liverpool in the quarter-finals with both sides winning a match each in domestic action this season.

Pep Guardiola’s side have won the League Cup aready this season, while the Premier League title now looks like a formality and Sane reckons the Champions League could also be within reach.

“This year, we’re a real strong team, and we understand Pep Guardiola’s philosophy, have improved a lot and know what he wants from us,” Sane said.

“The Champions League is a really tough tournament and every single game is really special and difficult.

“But we have a good chance to come to the final and win the Champions League. But it will be really difficult.”

Reacting to the draw, City’s sporting director Txki Begiristain reckons both Liverpool and City would have preferred a Champions League tie against foreign opposition.

“It’s a very difficult one,” Begiristain said. “We’re playing against a Premier League team.

“It’s something that you don’t like when you play Champions League but it’s what it is, we have to accept it and, of course, they’re a strong team.

“It’s going to be a difficult one because we know each other very well, so it makes it even more difficult.

“Both stadiums and the atmosphere they can generate – Anfield road, the Etihad – it’s going to be great. Great teams and I think good football from both sides.”