Pep Guardiola admits Man City ‘not complete’ but title hopes remain
Pep Guardiola has admitted Manchester City are “not a complete team” following their draw with Nottingham Forest but insists they remain in the Premier League title race.
The defending champions suffered a significant setback in their pursuit of Arsenal after being held to a 2-2 draw in midweek.
That result leaves the Etihad club trailing the league leaders by seven points.
Despite the gap, the City boss remains confident his side can recover their form as the season approaches its climax.
“Normally we react well,” said Guardiola. “We have the ability to forget quick.”
‘In the process of changes’
While the Spaniard remains optimistic about the immediate future, he conceded the squad is currently in a transitional phase.
“We are not a complete team to compete, that is the reality, we are in the process of many changes,” he explained.
“But if we can learn quicker, still nothing is lost, we can arrive in the last month with the chances.”
Guardiola also offered a strong hint regarding his long-term future at the club.
With speculation surrounding his tenure beyond his current contract, the 53-year-old suggested he is planning for the long haul.
“But I’m pretty sure next season will be better,” he added. “I don’t have doubts about that.”
Fixture congestion concerns
City’s immediate focus shifts to the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Newcastle United on Saturday.
The 20:00 GMT kick-off time has drawn a mixed reaction from the manager due to the proximity of their Champions League fixture against Real Madrid next Wednesday.
While the late start allows for extra recovery following the Nottingham Forest encounter, it significantly shortens preparation time for the trip to Spain.
“Recovery is massively important,” Guardiola stated. “Rest, sleep, food, training, we know how to handle it.”
“Of course when we arrive early at home it’s better than late for the recovery, but it is what it is.”
The Catalan coach noted that while other European leagues often reschedule matches to aid their teams in continental competition, he does not expect similar assistance in England.
He said: “For here in England it is more important what happens in the Carabao Cup than Champions League games for English teams. It’s happened since day one, so it’s no surprise.”
“I don’t ask for anything and if we to play at 8pm, we’re going to play at 8pm.”
“I don’t pay much attention to that. I’m not going to call [anyone]. I could do that but I gave up a long time ago.”
