Boluwatife Kehinde
Pep Guardiola has insisted that “the real season starts now” as Manchester City look to chase down Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
City cut the gap after a commanding 3-0 win over reigning champions Liverpool, while Arsenal slipped up in a 2-2 draw against Sunderland before the international break.
Speaking at his press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Newcastle, Guardiola was asked about the potential momentum swing created by those results.
A victory over Eddie Howe’s struggling side would move City to within a single point of Arsenal, who face Tottenham the following day.
The City manager acknowledged the importance of not allowing the “impeccable” Gunners to build a significant lead, but stressed that the campaign is still at an early stage.
“In the past, when we were competing intensely with Liverpool, I always felt neither team would drop many points. If they get too far ahead, it becomes very difficult to catch them,” he said.
“It was the same last season with Liverpool,” he added, referencing their title win with four games remaining.
Guardiola, who has lifted the Premier League trophy six times with City, said nothing will be settled in November.
“There are two phases in the season: the period after the summer transfer window and the one that begins after the international break,” he explained.
“Now that the break is over, we’ll be together until March, playing every three or four days. This is when the real season truly begins.”
He emphasized the importance of staying close to the league leaders:
“The key is to be there, to stay within reach, and then arrive at the end of the season ready to fight for the title. Winning tomorrow would be a big step.”
However, City will travel to St James’ Park without midfield duo Mateo Kovacic and Rodri.
“Everyone is fit except Kova and Rodri,” Guardiola confirmed. “Rodri is progressing well ,it’s been almost three weeks since his setback.
He knows he needs time to recover fully, both mentally and physically, so he can stay consistent for the rest of the season.”
Guardiola announces start of ‘real season’ as Man City edges closer to Arsenal
