Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper has backed his team to defy expectations at the Etihad Stadium this weekend.
Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper says he needs to find the right balance between respecting Manchester City’s strengths and believing in themselves ahead of Saturday’s trip to the Etihad Stadium. Soccer Net ng reported. >
City are in the UEFA Champions League this week and Nottingham last played Burnley on Monday, drawing 1-1, giving the Reds more time to prepare for their clash with the Premier League champions.
City beat Nottingham in the second leg last season, but Nottingham’s standout striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been involved in at least one goal in the last 10 games, with the 43-year-old’s team looking to challenge this season. It will be. weekend.
Ahead of the match, the Welshman praised the strength of Josep Guardiola’s side, but revealed that his side will give their best in Manchester.
“You have to go there with ambition. You have to go there with confidence and a mindset to do your best.” There has to be a balance. We have to respect their greatness, but at the same time we have to continue to believe in ourselves,” Cooper said on the club’s official website.
The Pontypridd-born coach realized how tough it would be to play against the league champions as they currently sit top of the league and remain unbeaten.
“All I do is recognize the level of Manchester City and what they achieved, the trophy they won last season and the status of Pep Guardiola. Inspires me, but I’m going too.” Trust my team. ”
Manchester City head coach Josep Guardiola also made pre-match comments during his team’s weekend match. He said:
“Next we play Nottingham Forest, who have won the Champions League twice. They have one more player than us, so it will be a tough game.”< /p>
Nottingham Forest will be without Danilo and Serge Aurier due to injuries, but Willy Boley is recovering well and could play against the Cityzens.
