Man City thinking about the title would be a ‘huge mistake’, says Guardiola

Pep Guardiola admitted it would be a “big mistake” for Manchester City to think about regaining the Premier League title amid their six-match losing run in the competition.

City suffered their latest defeat against Liverpool on Sunday. They lost 2–0 at Anfield, leaving them eleven points behind Arne Slot's side at the top of the table.

The Citizens return to the Etihad on Wednesday to take on Nottingham Forest, who returned to glory last weekend with a narrow 1-0 win over Ipswich Town.

Guardiola's men may be in poor form but they are unbeaten in their last eight league games against Forest, dating back to a 3-2 defeat in the second tier in December 1997.

However, when Guardiola was asked about his side's chances of winning a fifth consecutive Premier League title, he remained realistic given recent results.

“After the past results, you have to think about a big goal [winning the Premier League] That would be a big mistake,” Guardiola admitted.

“We have to beat a team close to us and take advantage to get closer to the top four. We're not far off the second team in the league, but it's all about consistency.

“Liverpool has been fantastic as a team and you just have to fight and win games. Step by step we have to move forward again.”

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— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 2, 2024

Despite suffering the longest winless spell of his managerial career, Guardiola insisted he was not feeling the pressure of the surrounding situation.

Having won 18 trophies in his eight full seasons as City boss, he is determined to fight on with the help of the supporters.

“The fans know what these guys have been doing for the last 10 years,” he added.

“They know we need the support, the players are human beings and will do everything they can to change the dynamic.

“We just have to play and think about the next one [game]. I don't know any other way. I don't feel sorry for myself.”

However, Guardiola stressed that his side would be a lot higher in the table if he had a fully fit squad to choose from.

City have been without several players for most of the season, including Rodri, absent through long-term injury, who expects a return to action before the season is out.

“With the whole squad, this season we would be close to our level of last season,” Guardiola said.

“We will talk internally in January, because it depends on the situation we are in at that time.”

Guardiola confirmed on Tuesday that John Stones would miss the visit of Nuno Espirito Santo's team, while Kevin De Bruyne is almost fully fit.