Roberto Mancini took the blame for Man City's defeat in the Champions League and added that the English champions will need a miracle to reach the knockout stages.
In Group D, after three matches, Man City players have only one point and are in fourth place. On Wednesday, the team led by the Italian coach lost 1-3 to Ajax in Amsterdam.
"It's my fault because we were not prepared properly for the match," said Mancini. "In the group, one team has seven, another six, and the third three points. We will need a miracle."
Currently, Borussia is leading Group D, followed by Real and Ajax.
Mancini faced criticism from defender Micah Richards, who did not understand the decision to play with five defenders: "We haven't played with three center-backs much and tonight we conceded a goal. This system is complicated, players are more used to four defenders. But if the coach thinks it's right, we have to try to implement his plans."
Mancini replied: "I don't think it matters whether there were three, four, five, six, or seven defenders. If someone needs an excuse, well, that's fine, but it's not a reason. If you are ready to fight in the Champions League, you do that. The tactics are not so important."