You can’t be afraid of Man City... even though they battered me!
Scott McKENNA has told his copenhagen team-mates not to be afraid of Manchester city as he faces a baptism of fire against the European champions.
The Scotland defender moved to the Danish club last month after being frozen out at Nottingham Forest.
And McKenna insists there’s nothing to be scared of – even though he was part of a Forest side who got hammered 6-0 by Pep Guardiola’s side last season.
He said: “Manchester City are obviously a top team and it will be a difficult match. But I don’t think you should show them too much respect, otherwise they will just run over you.
“You have to try to make it as difficult for them as possible and hopefully it will work out for us.
“I’ve only played against Manchester City once and it didn’t end too well for me! Copenhagen played them last season so the players at the club have probably faced them more than me.”
Copenhagen boss Jacob Neestrup has admitted his team face the ultimate test.
The Danes have not played a competitive game in the 63 days since beating Galatasaray to reach the last 16.
And Neestrup said: “It is the ultimate test. City have been the best team in Europe for a long time. But all teams have strengths and weaknesses – and you always have a chance.”
Guardiola has revealed a kick up the backside put Erling Haaland back in the goals. The City boss felt the striker was beating himself up as the champions struggled to score against Everton.
But Guardiola gave Haaland a few choice words at the break – and the 23-year-old responded with a double.
He said: “It looks like I am complaining about Erling but it was in general. His body language is not a problem.
“If he doesn’t score tomorrow, it is the day after or next week. It’s not a big issue.”