An emotional Pep Guardiola claimed he gave his best to Bayern Munich , but admitted it might not have been good enough as he failed to deliver the club a Champions League trophy.
The former Barcelona boss took over Bayern in the aftermath of their treble win under Jupp Heynckes and was expected to bring the European Cup back to Bavaria.
But after Antoine Griezmann’s second-half strike at the Allianz Arena confirmed Guardiola’s third consecutive semi-final exit, Manchester City’s next manager was philosophical as tears filled his eyes.
“We did everything we could. Now I hope Carlo Ancelotti next season can keep this same level going. I know he can do this.
“The club has a great future because with these players and this mentality there is always going to be a great future. I just wish the best for this club.
“I’ve helped the players here, we’ve played as well as we could and I’m very satisfied with the performances that we’ve given. Maybe it just wasn’t enough.”
Griezmann’s fatal away goal had cancelled out Xabi Alonso’s first-half free kick, which had looked to have swung the momentum firmly towards the hosts.
Even when Robert Lewandowski headed home in the late stages there was still a chance of progression, but Atletico held out resolutely to reach their second final in three years.
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