Guardiola explained why he admires Italian teams

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared his feelings about the start of the Champions League season and explained his admiration for Italian teams. The Citizens beat Napoli 2-0 in their first match of the European Cup.

"Yes, it was a perfect start to the Champions League. We had to play a lot of minutes against a team with ten men. Italian teams are just incredible in defense. I've played against them many, many times in the Champions League. They have endurance, concentration... I admire them a lot," Guardiola was quoted as saying by the BBC.

In the next round of the competition, Manchester City will play away against Monaco, while Napoli will host Sporting. Both matches will take place on October 1.