Erling Haaland led the calls for Manchester City to emulate Manchester United’s historic Treble after beating their fiercest rivals 2-1 to lift the FA Cup final at Wembley.
Two goals from Ilkay Gundogan added a second trophy to the Premier League and they can now match United’s legendary achievement of 1999 by claiming the Champions League as well against Inter Milan in Istanbul next Saturday.
Haaland showed he is fully aware of the sense of history by shouting “One more” as he congratulated team-mates on the pitch while Guardiola said his players know they need to become European champions in order to be regarded as all-time greats.
‘All the players were telling each other “One more to go” as they were hugging each other,’ said Guardiola who had a quick exchange with Sir Alex Ferguson the only other manager to complete the ultimate Treble, before collecting his medal.
‘The players feel we are in a position which we may never be in again.
Erling Haaland led the calls for Manchester City to emulate Man United’s historic Treble
Manchester City completed the second part of their Treble bid by winning the FA Cup
‘What we have done as a team is incredible, five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, Carabao Cups, but we have to win the Champions League for us to be recognised how we deserve.’
Guardiola’s Barcelona team featuring Lionel Messi is regarded as the greatest club side in history after winning the Champions League in 2009 and 2011 and he says City have to conquer Europe to even start comparisons.
‘They are different teams and mentality. That team was so special while we are in our second Champinos League final in three years.
‘I said to the players you have to put the pressure on yourself. To be recognised as something good you have to win in Europe. That’s how it works.’
Ilkay Gundogan's stunning double helped Manchester City overcome rivals Manchester United
Gundogan fired Manchester City ahead with just 12 seconds on the clock with a superb volley
The German midfielder found the net in the 51st minute with a well-placed left-footed strike
Gundogan scored the quickest goal in FA Cup final history to give City the lead after only 13 seconds. United levelled before the break when Bruno Fernandes took advantage of a controversial handball given against Jack Grealish but Gundogan had the last word when his bouncing shot deceived David de Gea.
There was also an unsavoury incident in which Victor Lindelof got struck by an object celebrating United’s goal though he was able to continue.
City defender John Stones said ‘It is a incredible and emotional feeling to win the FA Cup, especially against our neighbours.
‘What an incredible start it was but I’ve been in a few big games where we’ve scored early doors and it’s not ended how we wanted sou our mindset and courage, I am proud of everyone.’
