Borussia Dortmund: Sebastian Kehl expects two very difficult games against Manchester City
By Tushar Bahl
Sebastian Kehl expects two very tough games against Manchester City in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, but believes that Borussia Dortmund can pull off a shock and qualify for the semi-finals.
Borussia Dortmund were drawn against Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-finals on Friday. Pep Guardiola’s side are undoubtedly the favourites going into the tie. They currently hold a 14 point lead at the top of the Premier League standings, and thrashed Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Champions League round of 16.
But Borussia Dortmund, who defeated Sevilla in the round of 16, will feel that have enough quality in their ranks to pose a serious threat to Manchester City.
"Sebastian Kehl said after the draw:“To be honest, there were two teams I didn’t want to face. One of them was Manchester City. Because I think they’re the big favourites (to win the Champions League). It is going to be a tough tie and it will be two very difficult games for us.”“Nonetheless, we’re looking forward to what should be two very interesting games in April. We hope that we can pull off a little surprise.”"
Sebastian Kehl excited about Ilkay Gündogan reunion as Borussia Dortmund face Manchester City
Sebastian Kehl is also looking ahead to the reunion with his former midfield partner Ilkay Gündogan, who will return to the Signal Iduna Park for the first time since leaving the club to join Manchester City in 2016.
"“The reunion with Ilkay Gündogan will certainly be very cool. His development in recent years has been fantastic. He has become an important player for Manchester City. I hope we have the opportunity to play in Dortmund. That would also be great for him.”"
At the moment, it remains to be seen if Dortmund and Manchester will be able to host the two legs. The United Kingdom is currently considered to be a COVID-19 risk zone and the two legs may well have to be moved if the situation does not change before next month. Both legs of Manchester City’s round of 16 tie against Borussia Mönchengladbach were played in Budapest.
Next. Borussia Dortmund’s five most memorable UEFA Champions League moments. dark
Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City last faced each other in the group stage of the 2012/13 Champions League. The two sides played out a 1-1 draw in Manchester, and the Black and Yellows earned a 1-0 win at home to prevent City from qualifying for the Europa League knockout rounds.