City finally ended their long wait to win Europe's top competition last season and Guardiola wants to replicate the feat as the team start the defence of their title against Red Star Belgrade on Tuesday (19.09.23).

The City boss told reporters: "I’d like to say that for our club to win the Champions League is incredible – the first time in our history – but, in perspective, how many teams have won the Champions League once?

"A lot have won two, three, four, five. In perspective, we did nothing special. It’s just one.

"Let’s go. Let’s try to win against a team so aggressive, so fast up front."

Guardiola expects another difficult challenge in the Champions League but is aware that the pressure has been eased somewhat by last season's continental triumph.

The coach said: "It’s most difficult to win the first one. But every season we start the competition in the first game with the target to win the first game, then the group stage, then try to win the Champions League. Nothing changes from before.

"The same for Red Star tomorrow. It depends on our performance and our level.

"We’re incredibly happy to defend this crown but this competition doesn’t allow you mistakes.

"But always we were so strong at home, nine points from nine. When that happens you can win just one game away and you qualify. This is the first step."

Guardiola revealed that he has not watched last season's final back as City defeated Inter Milan in Istanbul.

He said: "I didn’t watch the game, no. Not at all. The competition gives us a new challenge so let’s at least try – and I don’t have any doubt we will try."