Pep Guardiola to thank José Mourinho as win over Real Madrid helps Man City secure Champions League top-eight spot

With Manchester City securing a spot in the top 8 in the UEFA Champions League table, head coach Pep Guardiola will be thanking Jose Mourinho after Benfica's win over Real Madrid.

José Mourinho emerged as one of the key figures of Matchday 8 in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, as Benfica stunned Real Madrid with a dramatic 4-2 stoppage-time victory. With Manchester City benefiting from the result to secure a top-eight finish, head coach Pep Guardiola admitted he would be thanking the Portuguese manager.