Pep Guardiola has warned against dismissing other title contenders while preparing his Manchester City squad for a difficult trip to face unbeaten hosts Sunderland.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed suggestions that the Premier League title race is strictly a two-way battle between his side and leaders Arsenal.
Following the Gunners’ 4-1 victory over Aston Villa, which moved them five points clear at the summit, Guardiola remained skeptical of narrowing the field so early.
Asked if it was now a two-horse race, he replied: “Are you sure? A few weeks it was just Arsenal, two days ago it was three [teams] in the title race. And now it is just one. We will see.”
City travel to the Stadium of Light on Thursday to face a seventh-placed Sunderland side that remains unbeaten at home this season.
Guardiola praised the newly-promoted hosts, noting that heavyweights like Arsenal and Aston Villa failed to win there.
Recalling the atmosphere from his first season in England, the City boss warned of the challenge ahead, stating:
“That means they are so tough. I remember in my first season when I went there the crowd was unbelievable. It will be really difficult but at the same time we are ready.”
As the winter transfer window opens, Guardiola avoided confirming reports of a £65m move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo or a potential loan exit for Oscar Bobb to Borussia Dortmund.
The manager maintained a strict focus on the immediate fixture rather than squad changes.
Addressing the speculation regarding Semenyo, he noted: “I have to be careful what I say. That is why I said yesterday before and the day of the game – the transfer window is completely closed right now.”