Pep Guardiola has spoken to the media ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Sheffield United at the Etihad Stadium.
The recently crowned World Champions play Sheffield United in the Premier League to cap off an amazing year. A win would put Manchester City within two points of league leaders Liverpool.
Guardiola’s team defeated Goodison Park 3-1 in midweek to earn just their second victory in seven Premier League games after winning the FIFA Club World Cup.
Three crucial points were gained by Manchester City thanks to goals in the second half from Phil Foden, Julian Alvarez, and Bernardo Silva. Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jeremy Doku were still sidelined, and John Stones suffered another injury setback.
This Saturday, Sheffield United makes their visit to the Etihad Stadium. Prior to the game, City had lost their last three home games against a faltering Blades team.
Pep Guardiola spoke to the media on Friday afternoon ahead of Manchester City’s last 2023 match, which took place at the City Football Academy on Saturday in the Premier League against Sheffield United.
In 2023, Pep Guardiola said, “Not bad at all.” Not too awful. It might be more ideal. In my opinion, yes. There’s always room for improvement. Avoid becoming overly avaricious. It was excellent—very excellent.
Pep Guardiola on the battle for the Premier League title:
“We are eliminated from the title chase after a loss. We are there after we win a game. The same holds true for our competitors. This year has shown us that anything may happen, including unexpected outcomes.
“We must exercise patience. Avoid making errors. We need to play with passion. The match versus Everton was only one game; you have to produce outcomes every time. The clubs at the bottom that are lower obtain results. Teams that are having trouble getting outcomes this season are usually able to do so in a more comfortable manner. That is how difficult it is.
Keep going and take it game by game. No. That’s what it is, the outside noise. We are accustomed to it. The Premier League is so long that we have to maintain our composure inside while playing.
Regarding Manchester City’s schedule, Pep Guardiola
“After being in Saudi Arabia to win the global championship, we can concentrate on the Premier League after we qualify for the Champions League. Although Huddersfield is a significant opponent in the FA Cup next week, the Premier League has historically been the primary mental goal.
Regarding John Stones’ fitness, Pep Guardiola
Nothing from the previous game has changed. We have John Stones in addition to the same injuries.
Regarding Sheffield United, Pep Guardiola
“In the past, there were a few issues against Sheffield when playing against a team that had Chris Wilder.” In the past, we have won by a very narrow margin.
“I watched their games, and it’s going to be really difficult. They play long balls to McBurnie and the others and defend so, so deep. They excel at what they do. We make an effort to stay concentrated on our tasks. Avoid making errors.