Pep Guardiola told Manchester City players he needed every single one of them to get through their doubleheaders with Atletico and Liverpool before they picked up a crucial Champions League win. City have potentially their most intense fortnight of the season, having to navigate a way through their European quarter-final as well as a top-of-the-table Premier League clash and FA Cup semi-final against Jurgen Klopp's impressive side.
Guardiola has always said that he needs a squad to win trophies rather than a team, and is renowned in the game for constantly rotating his team as he tries to pick the best side for a specific opponent. A triple substitution paid off against Atletico on Tuesday night at the Etihad, with Phil Foden providing the only goal of the game for Kevin De Bruyne within two minutes of coming off the bench.
Foden may have been one of those disappointed to be left out of the starting XI having shown what an influential player he can be, yet the City manager gathered the squad before the game to let them know that each of them would be called upon to contribute as they attempt to take significant strides towards what would be an incredible Treble.
READ MORE: Man City youngsters can add to winning culture in their cup final
Having impressed on their return from the international break at Burnley, City can take real confidence from breaking through Atletico walls and taking an advantage into their second leg next week. John Stones returned to the side after suffering a groin problem on international duty, and praised the way the team kept their patience.
"It is always difficult when a team does that. You can't get balls through the lines and create as many chances as you want. It's about trying to keep moving the ball quickly, keep probing, keep moving and staying positive, hoping the chances come," he said.
"We believed in ourselves and that they would. Everyone contributed and the players who came off the bench were excellent.
"I believe that is why we've been so successful over the years that I've been here. Everyone has done their job, been patient at times, always been ready. These next few months are vital. It's an important time and an exciting time. We should be positive about it."
Sign up to our City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.
