Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/city-wouldnt-have-won-title-with-similar-injury-issues-liverpools-klopp-386665" hreflang="en">City wouldn't have won title with similar injury issues: Liverpool's Klopp</a>

The star striker, who will turn 33 by the next season, has agreed to join Barcelona for a lower salary than was available elsewhere, however, will receive a bonus if the team win the Champions League.

Aguero has had a troubled 2020/2021 season with Manchester City as the striker's appearance was limited to 18 appearances with just four goals to his name after a string of injuries.&nbsp;

Man City boss Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Aguero on Friday and said: “His performance when he fit was fit was incredible.”

“I am pretty sure the 10,000 fans that will be in the stadium will show for the rest of the fans around the world, and will give him his tribute and gratitude for what he’s done for this club in terms of titles, numbers, performance – incredible,” he added.&nbsp;

Aguero's final match in the Etihad Stadium will be against Everton on Sunday and his final match in the Manchester City jersey will be in the highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League finals against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Barcelona are&nbsp;also closing in on Memphis Depay, who is set to run out of contract with Lyon this summer.&nbsp;

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona.

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona. ALSO READ: City wouldn't have won title with similar injury issues: Liverpool's Klopp The star striker, who will turn 33 by the next season, has agreed to join Barcelona for a lower salary than was available elsewhere, however, will receive a bonus if the team win the Champions League. Aguero has had a troubled 2020/2021 season with Manchester City as the striker's appearance was limited to 18 appearances with just four goals to his name after a string of injuries. Man City boss Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Aguero on Friday and said: “His performance when he fit was fit was incredible.” “I am pretty sure the 10,000 fans that will be in the stadium will show for the rest of the fans around the world, and will give him his tribute and gratitude for what he’s done for this club in terms of titles, numbers, performance – incredible,” he added. Aguero's final match in the Etihad Stadium will be against Everton on Sunday and his final match in the Manchester City jersey will be in the highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League finals against Chelsea. Barcelona are also closing in on Memphis Depay, who is set to run out of contract with Lyon this summer.

Man City star Sergio Aguero set to join Barcelona on two-year contract

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heaped praise on Ferran Torres after Spain forward scored a hat-trick, securing the Premier League champions a 4-3 victory at Newcastle United on Friday.

City twice fought back from a goal down and extended the gap at the top of the table to 13 points. That was City's 12th consecutive victory in an away league game - a record in English football.

Torres, who signed from La Liga club Valencia for 20 million pounds ($28.20 million) last August, scored once in the first half of the game and twice in the second, taking his total goal tally for City this season to 13.

"He was fantastic all season and an incredible signing for us," Guardiola said of the 21-year-old. "He's a young player and can play in three positions up front.

"He can make incredible runs in behind but maybe we have to start to think about if he can play as a striker because every time he plays in that position he has a sense for goal, a real sense for goal."

Torres said he is happy with his performance in his first season in England.

"It's been a season of learning for me, the Premier League is a very different competition from what I was used to, it’s very physical," he said.

"But I think I have adapted very well and I keep improving every day."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heaped praise on Ferran Torres after Spain forward scored a hat-trick, securing the Premier League champions a 4-3 victory at Newcastle United on Friday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heaped praise on Ferran Torres after Spain forward scored a hat-trick, securing the Premier League champions a 4-3 victory at Newcastle United on Friday. City twice fought back from a goal down and extended the gap at the top of the table to 13 points. That was City's 12th consecutive victory in an away league game - a record in English football. Torres, who signed from La Liga club Valencia for 20 million pounds ($28.20 million) last August, scored once in the first half of the game and twice in the second, taking his total goal tally for City this season to 13. "He was fantastic all season and an incredible signing for us," Guardiola said of the 21-year-old. "He's a young player and can play in three positions up front. "He can make incredible runs in behind but maybe we have to start to think about if he can play as a striker because every time he plays in that position he has a sense for goal, a real sense for goal." Torres said he is happy with his performance in his first season in England. "It's been a season of learning for me, the Premier League is a very different competition from what I was used to, it’s very physical," he said. "But I think I have adapted very well and I keep improving every day."

Man City boss Guardiola praises versatile Torres after hat-trick

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool.

Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return.

"Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much."

Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United.

"It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones.

"We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night."

City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November.

The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman.

"That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players.

"Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success. City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool. Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return. "Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much." Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United. "It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones. "We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night." City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November. The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman. "That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players. "Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Guardiola hails 'inspirational' Klopp as he savours Premier League triumph

Manchester&nbsp;United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer called on the club's owners to bolster his squad after a 2-1 loss at home to Leicester on Tuesday confirmed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;as Premier League champions.

Second-placed United, who had to beat the Foxes to maintain their fading title hopes, fell behind to Luke Thomas' 10th-minute goal at Old Trafford.

Mason Greenwood equalised just five minutes later but Turkish defender Caglar Soyuncu's second-half header saw Leicester to a win that boosted their bid for a Champions League place and set them up for this weekend's FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley.

Defeat left United 10 points behind&nbsp;City, with only a maximum of nine available to the Red Devils from their three remaining league games this season.

The Glazers, United's Florida-based owners, have been the target of bitter demonstrations by supporters in recent weeks as a result of their role in trying to take the club into the aborted European Super League.

One protest even saw United supporters break into Old Trafford ahead of a match against arch-rivals Liverpool, causing the fixture to be postponed.

But the Glazers have backed United managers in the transfer market during their controversial time in charge and Solskjaer urged them to make more funds available in a bid to get on terms with Abu Dhabi-backed&nbsp;City.

"If you want to take up the challenge with them (City) we need to strengthen our squad," Solskjaer told BT Sport.

"Congratulations to them. They have had a fantastic season. I am very pleased with my boys that have made it to the last 10 days with a&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;side ahead of us that are lauded as the best in Europe.

"We want to take the next step and it might be that we need a couple more to strengthen the squad."

Former United striker Solskjaer, faced with a schedule of three games in five days, had promised to rotate his squad.

And the Norwegian was as good as his word, making 10 changes to the side that beat Aston Villa 3-1, with Greenwood the only player to retain his starting position.

"It can't be like this again," said Solskjaer. "We can't play like Thursday, Sunday, Tuesday to Thursday, it is impossible that's the reason we made the changes. It's unheard of."

Leicester's victory meant the Midlands club leapfrogged Champions League finalists Chelsea into third place, although the London club have a game in hand, with the top four at the end of the Premier League season guaranteed a place among Europe's elite next term.

<h2>- 'Perfect platform' -</h2>

&nbsp;

The Foxes have yet to win the FA Cup but manager Brendan Rodgers said this win was the ideal preparation for Saturday's showpiece match.

"It’s the perfect platform to get the three points at this magnificent club," he told the BBC.&nbsp;

"We know we are playing a top team. Tonight was the Europa League finalists, now at the weekend it is the Champions League finalists.&nbsp;

"But we will be ready and let's see if we can make history," he added.

United defender Harry Maguire missed his first league match since joining from Leicester in 2019 after suffering an ankle injury in Sunday's comeback win at Villa Park.

As rain lashed down upon Old Trafford, it was the visitors who took a 10th-minute lead thanks to a superb finish from Thomas, who volleyed a centre from Youri Tielemans back across goal and into the top right-hand corner.

United, however, drew level through Greenwood's low shot before Soyuncu rose above Nemanja Matic in the 66th minute to head powerfully into the root of the net from a corner.&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer called on the club's owners to bolster his squad after a 2-1 loss at home to Leicester on Tuesday confirmed Manchester City as Premier League champions.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer called on the club's owners to bolster his squad after a 2-1 loss at home to Leicester on Tuesday confirmed Manchester City as Premier League champions. Second-placed United, who had to beat the Foxes to maintain their fading title hopes, fell behind to Luke Thomas' 10th-minute goal at Old Trafford. Mason Greenwood equalised just five minutes later but Turkish defender Caglar Soyuncu's second-half header saw Leicester to a win that boosted their bid for a Champions League place and set them up for this weekend's FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley. Defeat left United 10 points behind City, with only a maximum of nine available to the Red Devils from their three remaining league games this season. The Glazers, United's Florida-based owners, have been the target of bitter demonstrations by supporters in recent weeks as a result of their role in trying to take the club into the aborted European Super League. One protest even saw United supporters break into Old Trafford ahead of a match against arch-rivals Liverpool, causing the fixture to be postponed. But the Glazers have backed United managers in the transfer market during their controversial time in charge and Solskjaer urged them to make more funds available in a bid to get on terms with Abu Dhabi-backed City. "If you want to take up the challenge with them (City) we need to strengthen our squad," Solskjaer told BT Sport. "Congratulations to them. They have had a fantastic season. I am very pleased with my boys that have made it to the last 10 days with a Manchester City side ahead of us that are lauded as the best in Europe. "We want to take the next step and it might be that we need a couple more to strengthen the squad." Former United striker Solskjaer, faced with a schedule of three games in five days, had promised to rotate his squad. And the Norwegian was as good as his word, making 10 changes to the side that beat Aston Villa 3-1, with Greenwood the only player to retain his starting position. "It can't be like this again," said Solskjaer. "We can't play like Thursday, Sunday, Tuesday to Thursday, it is impossible that's the reason we made the changes. It's unheard of." Leicester's victory meant the Midlands club leapfrogged Champions League finalists Chelsea into third place, although the London club have a game in hand, with the top four at the end of the Premier League season guaranteed a place among Europe's elite next term. - 'Perfect platform' - The Foxes have yet to win the FA Cup but manager Brendan Rodgers said this win was the ideal preparation for Saturday's showpiece match. "It’s the perfect platform to get the three points at this magnificent club," he told the BBC. "We know we are playing a top team. Tonight was the Europa League finalists, now at the weekend it is the Champions League finalists. "But we will be ready and let's see if we can make history," he added. United defender Harry Maguire missed his first league match since joining from Leicester in 2019 after suffering an ankle injury in Sunday's comeback win at Villa Park. As rain lashed down upon Old Trafford, it was the visitors who took a 10th-minute lead thanks to a superb finish from Thomas, who volleyed a centre from Youri Tielemans back across goal and into the top right-hand corner. United, however, drew level through Greenwood's low shot before Soyuncu rose above Nemanja Matic in the 66th minute to head powerfully into the root of the net from a corner.

Solskjaer calls on Man Utd to strengthen after Leicester loss crowns Man City champions

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless"&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium.

City&nbsp;were handed the title when arch-rivals and nearest challengers&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United lost 2-1 at home to Leicester, leaving Guardiola's side 10 points clear with three games remaining.

"This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other. This was the hardest one," said Guardiola after&nbsp;City&nbsp;became English champions for the seventh time -- five titles coming in the past nine years.

City&nbsp;missed a chance to celebrate on the pitch at the weekend, losing 2-1 at home to Chelsea with United keeping them waiting by winning at Aston Villa.

But two days later they were able to savour a title triumph that is all the sweeter given the obstacles they have overcome in a coronavirus-condensed campaign played mostly without fans.

"We will always remember this season for the way we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players," said Guardiola.&nbsp;

It was&nbsp;City's second trophy in a little over two weeks after beating Tottenham in the League Cup final.

"They are so special. To come through this season, with all the restrictions and difficulties we've faced, and show the consistency we have is remarkable. It is relentless."

With coronavirus restrictions to be eased next week, there will be up to 10,000 fans in the Etihad Stadium to see&nbsp;City&nbsp;lift the trophy after their final home game with Everton on May 23.

In the meantime, hundreds celebrated in the streets outside&nbsp;City's stadium, letting off blue flares, waving banners and joyously chanting.

"It feels amazing, the greatest feeling is winning the Premier League. Better than any other in football. Love it!"&nbsp;City&nbsp;fan Graham Warner told AFP.

The club joined the celebrations by unveiling a giant sky blue banner on the outside of the stadium with the slogan "CHAMPIONS" above a picture of the team celebrating.

Since being taken over by the Abu Dhabi Group in September 2008,&nbsp;City&nbsp;have become the dominant force in English football, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and six League Cups.&nbsp;

This is the third time&nbsp;City&nbsp;have clinched a Premier League and League Cup double, and they also won a domestic treble in 2018/19 by adding the FA Cup.

They can secure another treble later this month, having reached their first Champions League final by beating Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final last week.

They will face Chelsea on May 29, with the venue likely to be switched from Istanbul to either Portugal or England so some fans can attend.

"Pep Guardiola is the greatest manager in the history of English football. And hopefully we're going to cap it all in a couple of weeks with the big one,"&nbsp;City&nbsp;supporter Charlie Hibber said.

Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;captain Fernandinho is now targeting being crowned European champions for the first time.

"We will enjoy this moment and we hope the fans do too," said the Brazilian midfielder.&nbsp;

"Rest assured we will continue to do everything we can to bring the Champions League home this season."

Fernandinho's&nbsp;City&nbsp;team-mates took to social media to celebrate their title triumph.

Alongside a picture of him celebrating with team-mate Rodri, Aymeric Laporte wrote on Twitter: "CHAMPIONNNNES CHAMPIONNNNES OLE OLE OLE."

Kevin De Bruyne posted: "Another One", while Raheem Sterling tweeted: "What's that smell?" before following with: "IT'S THE CHAMPIONS BABYYYY."

Prolific Argentina forward Sergio Aguero, who is leaving at the end of the season after 10 years at the club, wrote: "Champions! Proud of this team! Five #PremierLeague titles with #ManCity."

Leicester and United has been locked 1-1 at Old Trafford until Caglar Soyuncu's towering second-half header ensured&nbsp;City&nbsp;could pop the champagne with three games to spare after an uncharacteristically slow start because of the lack of a proper pre-season.

City&nbsp;won just five of their opening 12 Premier League games but Guardiola masterminded such a superb recovery that the title race became a procession, giving him three Premier League crowns to go with three La Liga trophies with Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga.&nbsp;

"At the start of every season, the Premier League is the most important title for us. This is the one where you have to be there every three days, playing all your rivals home and away," Guardiola said.

"Only by being the very best, week in week out, can you win this competition. It is a huge success."

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless" Manchester City after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium.

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless" Manchester City after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium. City were handed the title when arch-rivals and nearest challengers Manchester United lost 2-1 at home to Leicester, leaving Guardiola's side 10 points clear with three games remaining. "This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other. This was the hardest one," said Guardiola after City became English champions for the seventh time -- five titles coming in the past nine years. City missed a chance to celebrate on the pitch at the weekend, losing 2-1 at home to Chelsea with United keeping them waiting by winning at Aston Villa. But two days later they were able to savour a title triumph that is all the sweeter given the obstacles they have overcome in a coronavirus-condensed campaign played mostly without fans. "We will always remember this season for the way we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players," said Guardiola. It was City's second trophy in a little over two weeks after beating Tottenham in the League Cup final. "They are so special. To come through this season, with all the restrictions and difficulties we've faced, and show the consistency we have is remarkable. It is relentless." With coronavirus restrictions to be eased next week, there will be up to 10,000 fans in the Etihad Stadium to see City lift the trophy after their final home game with Everton on May 23. In the meantime, hundreds celebrated in the streets outside City's stadium, letting off blue flares, waving banners and joyously chanting. "It feels amazing, the greatest feeling is winning the Premier League. Better than any other in football. Love it!" City fan Graham Warner told AFP. The club joined the celebrations by unveiling a giant sky blue banner on the outside of the stadium with the slogan "CHAMPIONS" above a picture of the team celebrating. Since being taken over by the Abu Dhabi Group in September 2008, City have become the dominant force in English football, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and six League Cups. This is the third time City have clinched a Premier League and League Cup double, and they also won a domestic treble in 2018/19 by adding the FA Cup. They can secure another treble later this month, having reached their first Champions League final by beating Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final last week. They will face Chelsea on May 29, with the venue likely to be switched from Istanbul to either Portugal or England so some fans can attend. "Pep Guardiola is the greatest manager in the history of English football. And hopefully we're going to cap it all in a couple of weeks with the big one," City supporter Charlie Hibber said. Manchester City captain Fernandinho is now targeting being crowned European champions for the first time. "We will enjoy this moment and we hope the fans do too," said the Brazilian midfielder. "Rest assured we will continue to do everything we can to bring the Champions League home this season." Fernandinho's City team-mates took to social media to celebrate their title triumph. Alongside a picture of him celebrating with team-mate Rodri, Aymeric Laporte wrote on Twitter: "CHAMPIONNNNES CHAMPIONNNNES OLE OLE OLE." Kevin De Bruyne posted: "Another One", while Raheem Sterling tweeted: "What's that smell?" before following with: "IT'S THE CHAMPIONS BABYYYY." Prolific Argentina forward Sergio Aguero, who is leaving at the end of the season after 10 years at the club, wrote: "Champions! Proud of this team! Five #PremierLeague titles with #ManCity." Leicester and United has been locked 1-1 at Old Trafford until Caglar Soyuncu's towering second-half header ensured City could pop the champagne with three games to spare after an uncharacteristically slow start because of the lack of a proper pre-season. City won just five of their opening 12 Premier League games but Guardiola masterminded such a superb recovery that the title race became a procession, giving him three Premier League crowns to go with three La Liga trophies with Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. "At the start of every season, the Premier League is the most important title for us. This is the one where you have to be there every three days, playing all your rivals home and away," Guardiola said. "Only by being the very best, week in week out, can you win this competition. It is a huge success."

'Relentless': Pep hails City after fifth Premier League in nine years

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations. 
 
Raheem Sterling put City ahead in the 44th minute but Chelsea`s Hakim Ziyech equalised in the 63rd minute before Marcos Alonso completed their comeback with an injury-time winner. 
 
It was Chelsea`s second victory over City in three weeks following last month`s FA Cup semi-final win. The London club are unbeaten in their last seven games in all competitions. 
 
"It`s best to have consecutive good performances that lead to results," said Tuchel whose side are third in the league on 64 points after 35 games, three points behind second-placed Manchester United who have two games in hand. 
 
"The group and the players do everything to force the luck on our side, and we caught the momentum to have another big win. 
 
"It increases our self-confidence in a natural and healthy way because everybody knows we have to restart on Wednesday (against Arsenal in the league)." 
 
Tuchel will face Pep Guardiola`s side again later this month when they play the Champions League final on May 29. 
 
"The final is a very unique game and you cannot predict what will happen," Tuchel added. 
 
"You need to be well prepared, we will have some changes again, they will have some changes again, but we will arrive with the knowledge we are capable of beating City."

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations. Raheem Sterling put City ahead in the 44th minute but Chelsea`s Hakim Ziyech equalised in the 63rd minute before Marcos Alonso completed their comeback with an injury-time winner. It was Chelsea`s second victory over City in three weeks following last month`s FA Cup semi-final win. The London club are unbeaten in their last seven games in all competitions. "It`s best to have consecutive good performances that lead to results," said Tuchel whose side are third in the league on 64 points after 35 games, three points behind second-placed Manchester United who have two games in hand. "The group and the players do everything to force the luck on our side, and we caught the momentum to have another big win. "It increases our self-confidence in a natural and healthy way because everybody knows we have to restart on Wednesday (against Arsenal in the league)." Tuchel will face Pep Guardiola`s side again later this month when they play the Champions League final on May 29. "The final is a very unique game and you cannot predict what will happen," Tuchel added. "You need to be well prepared, we will have some changes again, they will have some changes again, but we will arrive with the knowledge we are capable of beating City."

Chelsea high on confidence after dramatic win over City: Tuchel

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Manchester&nbsp;City will be crowned champions for the fifth time in 10 years with three games to spare if they beat fourth-placed Chelsea, who are threatened by West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool.

They will also wrap up the title on Sunday if Manchester United loses at Aston Villa.

"We want to win to become champions but they also want to win because they want to finish fourth," Algeria forward Mahrez, who scored three of his team's four goals in a 4-1 aggregate victory against Paris St Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, told L'Equipe on Friday.

"The pressure will be more on them."

Manchester City will then turn their sights towards the May 29 Champions League final, where they will meet Chelsea again, with Mahrez facing his former Leicester teammate Ngolo Kante.

Both players were still in the lower divisions in France in their early 20s, with Kante playing in the third division in the 2012-13 season and Mahrez playing in Ligue 2 from 2011-14.

"I've always had a lot of ambitions, I've always thought I would be able to score in the quarter and semi-finals of the Champions League," said Mahrez.

"It's true that there are players like Kylian&nbsp;Mbappe who manage to do that when they're 17. But some of the players of my generation who were playing in Ligue 1 at 20 have since ended their career.

"That's when your career ends that you can assess it."

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Manchester City will be crowned champions for the fifth time in 10 years with three games to spare if they beat fourth-placed Chelsea, who are threatened by West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool. They will also wrap up the title on Sunday if Manchester United loses at Aston Villa. "We want to win to become champions but they also want to win because they want to finish fourth," Algeria forward Mahrez, who scored three of his team's four goals in a 4-1 aggregate victory against Paris St Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, told L'Equipe on Friday. "The pressure will be more on them." Manchester City will then turn their sights towards the May 29 Champions League final, where they will meet Chelsea again, with Mahrez facing his former Leicester teammate Ngolo Kante. Both players were still in the lower divisions in France in their early 20s, with Kante playing in the third division in the 2012-13 season and Mahrez playing in Ligue 2 from 2011-14. "I've always had a lot of ambitions, I've always thought I would be able to score in the quarter and semi-finals of the Champions League," said Mahrez. "It's true that there are players like Kylian Mbappe who manage to do that when they're 17. But some of the players of my generation who were playing in Ligue 1 at 20 have since ended their career. "That's when your career ends that you can assess it."

Pressure is on Chelsea, says Manchester City's Riyad Mahrez

For Paris Saint-Germain another&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment.

In 2018 and 2019 it was Neymar who was injured as PSG lost in the last 16 to Real Madrid and then Manchester United.

This time it was Kylian Mbappe, handicapped by a calf knock that meant he was left on the bench in Tuesday's 2-0 semi-final second leg defeat against Manchester City, huddled up to keep warm on a bitter night in the north of England.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino must have hoped his team, having lost 2-1 in the first leg, could stay in the tie long enough to make it worth risking Mbappe for the closing stages.

After Riyad Mahrez scored his and City's second of the night, Angel Di Maria's sending-off midway through the second half meant there was no point in sending on Mbappe. The tie was over.

There will be no second consecutive&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final for last season's runners-up, as the most coveted trophy of all continues to elude their Qatari owners a decade after they bought the club.

This defeat might hurt that bit more coming against Abu Dhabi-backed City, and it once again brings into focus the Qatar strategy at the Parc des Princes.

PSG threw the two biggest transfer fees in history at Neymar and Mbappe in 2017 but the 400 million-euro ($480m) duo have not managed to deliver European glory, and they now have just a year remaining on their contracts.

Mbappe starred with a hat-trick in Barcelona and a brace at Bayern Munich in the last two rounds. Standing in for him in Manchester, Mauro Icardi made little impact, and the Parisians failed to muster a shot on target in the tie after the 28th minute of the first leg.

<h2>'Lost their nerve'&nbsp;</h2>

They ended up losing their nerve at the Etihad Stadium, with Di Maria seeing red for stamping on Fernandinho's foot before Marco Verratti, Presnel Kimpembe and Danilo Pereira were all booked.

Afterwards PSG players queued up to accuse Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers of insulting them, but they did not help themselves.

"They lost their nerve and started to kick us and after the red card it was more comfortable," said Mahrez, born and brought up in the Paris suburbs but who drove a dagger to PSG's heart by scoring three of City's four goals in the tie, a year after ex-Paris winger Kingsley Coman netted Bayern's winner in the final.

It was an inglorious exit for Pochettino's team, but the defeat should take nothing away from their achievements in knocking out Barcelona and Bayern.

"We eliminated teams who could have gone on to win it, like us," PSG's sporting director Leonardo told broadcaster RMC Sport.

"Our objective now is always to win, not just to reach the semi-finals, but I think our performances in the last two years have shown that we are among the real contenders to win the trophy we want the most."

<h2>Will star duo sign new deals?&nbsp;</h2>

The question now, as always, is what happens next.

Leonardo still needs to add quality to support Mbappe and Neymar, particularly at full-back.

He also needs to sort out the futures of his superstar forwards, with negotiations over new contracts ongoing.

"We need to continue, keep the foundations we have," Leonardo added.

"Today is not the time to decide or announce anything. We can be proud of what we did. We are not satisfied at losing in the semi-finals but that can happen against a team like Manchester City.

"I am optimistic for the future."

That future will be with Pochettino, who arrived in January and has regularly spoken of the need for a full pre-season.

More immediately he also has a&nbsp;league&nbsp;and cup double to win -- French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;seven times in eight years, PSG are second in Ligue 1, a point behind Lille with three matches left.

"Let's concentrate on the future and prepare the team to win the games we have left," Pochettino said.

"The way we played in these two games gives us hope for the future, to come back and try again."

For Paris Saint-Germain another Champions League campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment.

For Paris Saint-Germain another Champions League campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment. In 2018 and 2019 it was Neymar who was injured as PSG lost in the last 16 to Real Madrid and then Manchester United. This time it was Kylian Mbappe, handicapped by a calf knock that meant he was left on the bench in Tuesday's 2-0 semi-final second leg defeat against Manchester City, huddled up to keep warm on a bitter night in the north of England. Coach Mauricio Pochettino must have hoped his team, having lost 2-1 in the first leg, could stay in the tie long enough to make it worth risking Mbappe for the closing stages. After Riyad Mahrez scored his and City's second of the night, Angel Di Maria's sending-off midway through the second half meant there was no point in sending on Mbappe. The tie was over. There will be no second consecutive Champions League final for last season's runners-up, as the most coveted trophy of all continues to elude their Qatari owners a decade after they bought the club. This defeat might hurt that bit more coming against Abu Dhabi-backed City, and it once again brings into focus the Qatar strategy at the Parc des Princes. PSG threw the two biggest transfer fees in history at Neymar and Mbappe in 2017 but the 400 million-euro ($480m) duo have not managed to deliver European glory, and they now have just a year remaining on their contracts. Mbappe starred with a hat-trick in Barcelona and a brace at Bayern Munich in the last two rounds. Standing in for him in Manchester, Mauro Icardi made little impact, and the Parisians failed to muster a shot on target in the tie after the 28th minute of the first leg. 'Lost their nerve' They ended up losing their nerve at the Etihad Stadium, with Di Maria seeing red for stamping on Fernandinho's foot before Marco Verratti, Presnel Kimpembe and Danilo Pereira were all booked. Afterwards PSG players queued up to accuse Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers of insulting them, but they did not help themselves. "They lost their nerve and started to kick us and after the red card it was more comfortable," said Mahrez, born and brought up in the Paris suburbs but who drove a dagger to PSG's heart by scoring three of City's four goals in the tie, a year after ex-Paris winger Kingsley Coman netted Bayern's winner in the final. It was an inglorious exit for Pochettino's team, but the defeat should take nothing away from their achievements in knocking out Barcelona and Bayern. "We eliminated teams who could have gone on to win it, like us," PSG's sporting director Leonardo told broadcaster RMC Sport. "Our objective now is always to win, not just to reach the semi-finals, but I think our performances in the last two years have shown that we are among the real contenders to win the trophy we want the most." Will star duo sign new deals? The question now, as always, is what happens next. Leonardo still needs to add quality to support Mbappe and Neymar, particularly at full-back. He also needs to sort out the futures of his superstar forwards, with negotiations over new contracts ongoing. "We need to continue, keep the foundations we have," Leonardo added. "Today is not the time to decide or announce anything. We can be proud of what we did. We are not satisfied at losing in the semi-finals but that can happen against a team like Manchester City. "I am optimistic for the future." That future will be with Pochettino, who arrived in January and has regularly spoken of the need for a full pre-season. More immediately he also has a league and cup double to win -- French champions seven times in eight years, PSG are second in Ligue 1, a point behind Lille with three matches left. "Let's concentrate on the future and prepare the team to win the games we have left," Pochettino said. "The way we played in these two games gives us hope for the future, to come back and try again."

PSG regret Mbappe absence and loss of discipline in latest Champions League exit

Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

City came from behind with a stunning second-half performance in the French capital last week to take a giant step towards a goal they have been chasing ever since Sheikh Mansour's takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes.

Guardiola has won the Champions League twice as a coach when in charge of Barcelona, but has failed to do so in the past 10 years as he has suffered numerous agonising exits from Europe's premier club competition as Barca, Bayern Munich and City boss.

City moved to the brink of sealing a third Premier League title in four years at the weekend and Guardiola urged his side to maintain the same focus they have all season to see off PSG on Tuesday.

“The second-leg of semi-final always the toughest game, more than the final. We have to control our emotions to do exactly what we have to do," said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference.

"You cannot play 90 minutes like we played in the second half (in Paris). I would love to but it won't happen.

“You have to understand it will be a big battle and we are going to suffer. They have to visualise that we are going to do it.

"What we have to do is not different to what we have done over the last seven months. Go out and play our game and win."

PSG are also dreaming of winning the Champions League for the first time, but if they are to progress to the final for a second consecutive season, they will need to score at least twice at the Etihad.

City have not conceded more than once in a Champions League game all season as the centre-back partnership of Ruben Dias and John Stones has eradicated the sort of defensive lapses that have cost Guardiola's men in previous years in this competition.

Stones admitted the English champions-elect have to remain wary of the "world class" talents of PSG star duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, but said City are confident of finally getting to the final

"I think (we are) quietly confident, we have to be. It is a big occasion for us as players and as a club, a chance to get into a Champions League final," said Stones.

"We have got to go into it where we left off. We are really confident and excited for the challenge ahead."

Mbappe is an injury doubt after sitting out Saturday's 2-1 win over Lens due to a calf strain.

The French World Cup winner has travelled to Manchester with the rest of the PSG squad and Guardiola dismissed any suggestion he won't be available.

"He is going to play," added Guardiola. "I am looking forward to him playing, for the football and the game itself."

Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. City came from behind with a stunning second-half performance in the French capital last week to take a giant step towards a goal they have been chasing ever since Sheikh Mansour's takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes. Guardiola has won the Champions League twice as a coach when in charge of Barcelona, but has failed to do so in the past 10 years as he has suffered numerous agonising exits from Europe's premier club competition as Barca, Bayern Munich and City boss. City moved to the brink of sealing a third Premier League title in four years at the weekend and Guardiola urged his side to maintain the same focus they have all season to see off PSG on Tuesday. “The second-leg of semi-final always the toughest game, more than the final. We have to control our emotions to do exactly what we have to do," said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference. "You cannot play 90 minutes like we played in the second half (in Paris). I would love to but it won't happen. “You have to understand it will be a big battle and we are going to suffer. They have to visualise that we are going to do it. "What we have to do is not different to what we have done over the last seven months. Go out and play our game and win." PSG are also dreaming of winning the Champions League for the first time, but if they are to progress to the final for a second consecutive season, they will need to score at least twice at the Etihad. City have not conceded more than once in a Champions League game all season as the centre-back partnership of Ruben Dias and John Stones has eradicated the sort of defensive lapses that have cost Guardiola's men in previous years in this competition. Stones admitted the English champions-elect have to remain wary of the "world class" talents of PSG star duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, but said City are confident of finally getting to the final "I think (we are) quietly confident, we have to be. It is a big occasion for us as players and as a club, a chance to get into a Champions League final," said Stones. "We have got to go into it where we left off. We are really confident and excited for the challenge ahead." Mbappe is an injury doubt after sitting out Saturday's 2-1 win over Lens due to a calf strain. The French World Cup winner has travelled to Manchester with the rest of the PSG squad and Guardiola dismissed any suggestion he won't be available. "He is going to play," added Guardiola. "I am looking forward to him playing, for the football and the game itself."

Guardiola calls for Man City cool heads to see off PSG

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres.

Chelsea's 2-0 home win over Fulham cemented them in fourth place while leaving their London rivals facing almost certain relegation and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion took a massive leap towards safety by beating visiting Leeds United 2-0.

Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe suffered a blow as they went down 2-1 at home to Aston Villa.

City scored twice in 83 seconds in the second half to notch an 11th successive away league win and will be confirmed as champions if Liverpool win at Manchester United on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola's side have 80 points with four games left, while second-placed United are on 67 with five to play.

Leicester City, who drew 1-1 with 10-man Southampton on Friday, are third on 63 points. Fourth-placed Chelsea have 61, six ahead of West Ham United who travel to Burnley on Monday.

"We can start to put the champagne in the fridge -- not to open yet but to think about it," said Guardiola, whose side face Paris St Germain on Tuesday in the home leg of their Champions League semi-final with a 2-1 lead.

"The Premier League is already there -- it is in our hands. We need one more victory, two more points."

MASSIVE WEEK

Chelsea, who like City face a massive week with a Champions League semi-final return against Real Madrid after a 1-1 draw away, had a Kai Havertz double to thank for beating Fulham.

Germany forward Havertz. who has struggled to justify his 71 million pounds ($98.08 million) price tag from Bayer Leverkusen, doubled his Premier League tally in the game against Fulham.

"Kai played double striker with Timo (Werner) and the two had a good connection and were always dangerous," Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said. "We need him spot on to achieve our goals."

Fulham are nine points behind fourth-bottom Newcastle United after a fifth defeat in six matches although manager Scott Parker refused to admit staying up was a lost cause.

"I understand from the outside people will laugh and think I'm crazy, but there's no other option for me," he said.

"While it's the case that we can (survive), that's our main focus from now until the end."

Brighton breathed a sigh of relief as they moved 10 points clear of the drop zone by beating Leeds on the south-coast.

Pascal Gross converted a penalty in the 14th minute and Danny Welbeck sealed the win with a late goal that lifted Brighton to 14th in the standings.

"It was one of our best performances. You have to match Leeds for their effort and honesty and I felt we did that really well," Brighton manager Graham Potter said.

Anwar El Ghazi's superb late curler earned Villa the points at Goodison Park -- leaving Everton frustrated and nine points behind Chelsea albeit with a game in hand.

Ollie Watkins opened the scoring for Villa but Dominic Calvert-Lewin soon headed an equaliser.

Everton have won one of their last 10 home league games and that looks like it could cost them a European place.

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres.

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres. Chelsea's 2-0 home win over Fulham cemented them in fourth place while leaving their London rivals facing almost certain relegation and Brighton & Hove Albion took a massive leap towards safety by beating visiting Leeds United 2-0. Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe suffered a blow as they went down 2-1 at home to Aston Villa. City scored twice in 83 seconds in the second half to notch an 11th successive away league win and will be confirmed as champions if Liverpool win at Manchester United on Sunday. Pep Guardiola's side have 80 points with four games left, while second-placed United are on 67 with five to play. Leicester City, who drew 1-1 with 10-man Southampton on Friday, are third on 63 points. Fourth-placed Chelsea have 61, six ahead of West Ham United who travel to Burnley on Monday. "We can start to put the champagne in the fridge -- not to open yet but to think about it," said Guardiola, whose side face Paris St Germain on Tuesday in the home leg of their Champions League semi-final with a 2-1 lead. "The Premier League is already there -- it is in our hands. We need one more victory, two more points." MASSIVE WEEK Chelsea, who like City face a massive week with a Champions League semi-final return against Real Madrid after a 1-1 draw away, had a Kai Havertz double to thank for beating Fulham. Germany forward Havertz. who has struggled to justify his 71 million pounds ($98.08 million) price tag from Bayer Leverkusen, doubled his Premier League tally in the game against Fulham. "Kai played double striker with Timo (Werner) and the two had a good connection and were always dangerous," Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said. "We need him spot on to achieve our goals." Fulham are nine points behind fourth-bottom Newcastle United after a fifth defeat in six matches although manager Scott Parker refused to admit staying up was a lost cause. "I understand from the outside people will laugh and think I'm crazy, but there's no other option for me," he said. "While it's the case that we can (survive), that's our main focus from now until the end." Brighton breathed a sigh of relief as they moved 10 points clear of the drop zone by beating Leeds on the south-coast. Pascal Gross converted a penalty in the 14th minute and Danny Welbeck sealed the win with a late goal that lifted Brighton to 14th in the standings. "It was one of our best performances. You have to match Leeds for their effort and honesty and I felt we did that really well," Brighton manager Graham Potter said. Anwar El Ghazi's superb late curler earned Villa the points at Goodison Park -- leaving Everton frustrated and nine points behind Chelsea albeit with a game in hand. Ollie Watkins opened the scoring for Villa but Dominic Calvert-Lewin soon headed an equaliser. Everton have won one of their last 10 home league games and that looks like it could cost them a European place.

Premier League: Manchester City on brink of title, Chelsea bolster top-four hopes

Manchester City could wrap up the Premier League title this weekend but manager Pep Guardiola is in no hurry to break out the champagne as he expects a tough battle at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Guardiola will win his third league title with the club if City beat Palace and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday, but the Spaniard was not yet ready to draw comparisons with his previous title wins.

"Let me try to win at Crystal Palace... United is an extraordinary team arriving in the last two months in their best form of the season and we need five points to be champions," Guardiola, whose side beat Paris St Germain 2-1 in the Champions League in midweek, told reporters on Friday.

"All we can do now is recover as well as possible from the physically and mentally tough game we played in Paris. It is our sixth game in a row away. It is a lot of travel and we are tired in many aspects.

"It is Crystal Palace, a Roy Hodgson team. Every time we have faced them we had a lot of problems to win the game."

Manchester City have dominated the league playing a number of games without a recognized striker with Gabriel Jesus often benched and Sergio Aguero injured.

Guardiola said he liked playing midfielders in attack as the best way to defend is to keep the ball in difficult circumstances.

"I have to admit that I like players with the ability to keep the ball, it's one of the biggest principles I look for from the team and the players," Guardiola said.

"In all my career I play with a lot of midfield players. I don't know why but I have the feeling that you can play better with this (approach)... It happened with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and here as well."

Manchester City could wrap up the Premier League title this weekend but manager Pep Guardiola is in no hurry to break out the champagne as he expects a tough battle at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Manchester City could wrap up the Premier League title this weekend but manager Pep Guardiola is in no hurry to break out the champagne as he expects a tough battle at Crystal Palace on Saturday. Guardiola will win his third league title with the club if City beat Palace and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday, but the Spaniard was not yet ready to draw comparisons with his previous title wins. "Let me try to win at Crystal Palace... United is an extraordinary team arriving in the last two months in their best form of the season and we need five points to be champions," Guardiola, whose side beat Paris St Germain 2-1 in the Champions League in midweek, told reporters on Friday. "All we can do now is recover as well as possible from the physically and mentally tough game we played in Paris. It is our sixth game in a row away. It is a lot of travel and we are tired in many aspects. "It is Crystal Palace, a Roy Hodgson team. Every time we have faced them we had a lot of problems to win the game." Manchester City have dominated the league playing a number of games without a recognized striker with Gabriel Jesus often benched and Sergio Aguero injured. Guardiola said he liked playing midfielders in attack as the best way to defend is to keep the ball in difficult circumstances. "I have to admit that I like players with the ability to keep the ball, it's one of the biggest principles I look for from the team and the players," Guardiola said. "In all my career I play with a lot of midfield players. I don't know why but I have the feeling that you can play better with this (approach)... It happened with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and here as well."

Title in sight but Manchester City's Pep Guardiola focused only on Crystal Palace

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season. 
 
A dominant Liverpool cruised to the league title last season, but City will this weekend reclaim the crown they lost to Klopp`s side if they defeat Crystal Palace later on Saturday and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday. 
 
Klopp`s sixth-placed Liverpool have struggled due to injuries and a dip in form and are in a battle to finish in the top four, thereby securing Champions League qualification. 
 
"It always becomes harder because Manchester City never stop. That`s clear. They didn`t stop and they`ll not stop," Klopp told a news conference on Friday. 
 
"Two years in a row they had us on their necks. OK, for one year we were ahead of them, but we never expected that to happen for the next 10 years in a row." 
 
Klopp said Liverpool`s title challenge next season could get tougher with more teams challenging at the top. 
 
"Now Manchester United are coming up. Chelsea are obviously in a brilliant place, a top squad ... you can see they`re really good so it`ll not get easier," Klopp said. 
 
"There will be other teams for sure. Like Leicester City - brilliant manager and a top squad dealing with different situations. 
 
"Nobody should write off Tottenham Hotspur or Arsenal. Obviously West Ham United are now flying. How can it be easier? The good thing about Manchester City is that you only meet them twice a season." 
 
Klopp stressed that his immediate focus was on Manchester United and winning their remaining games this season. 
 
"We`ll give our absolute everything again next year but for now we`re concentrating on Sunday," Klopp said.

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season.

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season. A dominant Liverpool cruised to the league title last season, but City will this weekend reclaim the crown they lost to Klopp`s side if they defeat Crystal Palace later on Saturday and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday. Klopp`s sixth-placed Liverpool have struggled due to injuries and a dip in form and are in a battle to finish in the top four, thereby securing Champions League qualification. "It always becomes harder because Manchester City never stop. That`s clear. They didn`t stop and they`ll not stop," Klopp told a news conference on Friday. "Two years in a row they had us on their necks. OK, for one year we were ahead of them, but we never expected that to happen for the next 10 years in a row." Klopp said Liverpool`s title challenge next season could get tougher with more teams challenging at the top. "Now Manchester United are coming up. Chelsea are obviously in a brilliant place, a top squad ... you can see they`re really good so it`ll not get easier," Klopp said. "There will be other teams for sure. Like Leicester City - brilliant manager and a top squad dealing with different situations. "Nobody should write off Tottenham Hotspur or Arsenal. Obviously West Ham United are now flying. How can it be easier? The good thing about Manchester City is that you only meet them twice a season." Klopp stressed that his immediate focus was on Manchester United and winning their remaining games this season. "We`ll give our absolute everything again next year but for now we`re concentrating on Sunday," Klopp said.

Liverpool's Klopp says teams will find it harder to stop Manchester City

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

City, who are looking to win Europe's elite club competition for the first time, take on a PSG side that boasts a wealth of attacking talent, and Guardiola said there are no effective defensive strategies against the French champions.

"They're too good. I tried to sleep well last night and that was when I wasn't thinking of them," Guardiola told reporters on the eve of the clash.

"That's the reality. They're top players. That's why they play in that team with the quality they have. We're ready to try to stop them, defend as a team, play good football and try to score goals."

Guardiola first faced Neymar when the Brazil forward was playing for Santos against his Barcelona side in the 2011 Club World Cup.

"I remember when I saw some clips of Santos in that era and I said to the (Barcelona) players, 'This is the king of Santos', and all the players were open-mouthed. They said, 'Oh my God, what a player.' He's a joy to watch as a spectator," he said.

"He has Brazil on his shoulders, the number 10 shirt of Brazil isn't easy to wear."

Neymar went on to play for Barcelona before PSG smashed the world record transfer fee when they spent 222 million euros ($268 million) in 2017 to bring him to Paris.

"I'm pretty sure if he had stayed in Barca they would have won two, three more Champions Leagues. With Neymar, (Lionel) Messi and (Luis) Suarez, the best three I've seen," Guardiola said.

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg. City, who are looking to win Europe's elite club competition for the first time, take on a PSG side that boasts a wealth of attacking talent, and Guardiola said there are no effective defensive strategies against the French champions. "They're too good. I tried to sleep well last night and that was when I wasn't thinking of them," Guardiola told reporters on the eve of the clash. "That's the reality. They're top players. That's why they play in that team with the quality they have. We're ready to try to stop them, defend as a team, play good football and try to score goals." Guardiola first faced Neymar when the Brazil forward was playing for Santos against his Barcelona side in the 2011 Club World Cup. "I remember when I saw some clips of Santos in that era and I said to the (Barcelona) players, 'This is the king of Santos', and all the players were open-mouthed. They said, 'Oh my God, what a player.' He's a joy to watch as a spectator," he said. "He has Brazil on his shoulders, the number 10 shirt of Brazil isn't easy to wear." Neymar went on to play for Barcelona before PSG smashed the world record transfer fee when they spent 222 million euros ($268 million) in 2017 to bring him to Paris. "I'm pretty sure if he had stayed in Barca they would have won two, three more Champions Leagues. With Neymar, (Lionel) Messi and (Luis) Suarez, the best three I've seen," Guardiola said.

PSG attack can give managers sleepless nights, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed. <o:p></o:p>

City are one of 12 clubs to have signed up to the much-talked-about European Super League, alongside Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.<o:p></o:p>

The Super League would guarantee a sport for 15 founding members every season while removing the uncertainty of qualification and the risks to the revenue. However, it has come under severe scrutiny as experts say it is against the integrity of the sport.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-doubt-that-fifa-disapproves-of-super-league-infantino-378785" hreflang="en">'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino</a>

"It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," Guardiola said on Tuesday. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose.<o:p></o:p>

"It's not fair when one team fight, fight, fight, arrive at the top and after cannot qualify because the success is already guaranteed just for a few clubs.<o:p></o:p>

"People say five clubs can go up and play this competition, but what happens if these 15 don't play a good season and will be there. This is not a sport."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/self-serving-super-league-opens-unprecedented-conflict-in-european-football-378791" hreflang="en">'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football</a>

Guardiola further voiced for other managers of the breakaway clubs saying they have been put in an “uncomfortable” position to having to attend press conferences before a clear picture is given by the club executives to explain the proposal and their decision in detail.<o:p></o:p>

While one of Guardiola’s former clubs Barcelona have signed up for the Super League, another former employers Bayern Munich have rejected the plans.<o:p></o:p>

Guardiola further questioned the selection of 12 clubs as four-time European champions Ajax have not been involved in the Super League proposals. <o:p></o:p>

"They have the duty and obligation to say as soon as possible," he added.<o:p></o:p>

"To come out all around the world because it is a worldwide issue and clarify why these ones are in and the other ones not. Why Ajax Amsterdam, they have four Champions Leagues, is not there? They have to tell all of us."<o:p></o:p>

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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed. City are one of 12 clubs to have signed up to the much-talked-about European Super League, alongside Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The Super League would guarantee a sport for 15 founding members every season while removing the uncertainty of qualification and the risks to the revenue. However, it has come under severe scrutiny as experts say it is against the integrity of the sport. ALSO READ: 'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino "It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," Guardiola said on Tuesday. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose. "It's not fair when one team fight, fight, fight, arrive at the top and after cannot qualify because the success is already guaranteed just for a few clubs. "People say five clubs can go up and play this competition, but what happens if these 15 don't play a good season and will be there. This is not a sport." ALSO READ: 'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football Guardiola further voiced for other managers of the breakaway clubs saying they have been put in an “uncomfortable” position to having to attend press conferences before a clear picture is given by the club executives to explain the proposal and their decision in detail. While one of Guardiola’s former clubs Barcelona have signed up for the Super League, another former employers Bayern Munich have rejected the plans. Guardiola further questioned the selection of 12 clubs as four-time European champions Ajax have not been involved in the Super League proposals. "They have the duty and obligation to say as soon as possible," he added. "To come out all around the world because it is a worldwide issue and clarify why these ones are in and the other ones not. Why Ajax Amsterdam, they have four Champions Leagues, is not there? They have to tell all of us."

Not a sport when success is guaranteed: Man City's Pep Guardiola responds to ESL development

Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday.

Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played.

Guardiola, who views the Argentine as a role model, said at his pre-match press conference on Friday: "I'm overwhelmed, I feel weird.

"He's the most honest person. I'm pretty sure what he says is what he believes. He doesn't say or do anything for the media for the reputation of himself.

"That's why I'm overwhelmed. Everyone knows the admiration and respect (I have for him), the way he helped me in my beginnings.

"Always he'll be there in my heart and that's why I am always, 'wow'.&nbsp;

"Always I feel I don't deserve it because if there's one person who can search or find the secrets, the way we want to do it, the way we want to play, it's him, through his work ethic and especially his knowledge about the game."

Quadruple-chasing City head into the Premier League game at the Etihad Stadium 14 points clear at the top of the table.

They need 11 more points from their remaining seven fixtures to wrap up their third title in four years.

The sides drew 1-1 when they met at Elland Road in October.

Guardiola said: "I am looking forward to the game. We faced them in the first game and we know how difficult it was and this will not be an exception.

"The quality of the manager and the backroom staff shows in the position in the table. They were promoted last season and are already safe with 42 points... They've done incredibly well all season."

City were boosted this week by the announcement that Kevin De Bruyne had signed a new contract, committing him to the club until 2025.

Seeing it through would take the 29-year-old playmaker up to a decade at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola said: "I'm glad an important player like Kevin, who can have all the world in his hands and all the clubs would be delighted to have him, has decided to stay with us.

"I think it's a big compliment for all at Manchester City."

Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday. Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played.

Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday. Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played. Guardiola, who views the Argentine as a role model, said at his pre-match press conference on Friday: "I'm overwhelmed, I feel weird. "He's the most honest person. I'm pretty sure what he says is what he believes. He doesn't say or do anything for the media for the reputation of himself. "That's why I'm overwhelmed. Everyone knows the admiration and respect (I have for him), the way he helped me in my beginnings. "Always he'll be there in my heart and that's why I am always, 'wow'. "Always I feel I don't deserve it because if there's one person who can search or find the secrets, the way we want to do it, the way we want to play, it's him, through his work ethic and especially his knowledge about the game." Quadruple-chasing City head into the Premier League game at the Etihad Stadium 14 points clear at the top of the table. They need 11 more points from their remaining seven fixtures to wrap up their third title in four years. The sides drew 1-1 when they met at Elland Road in October. Guardiola said: "I am looking forward to the game. We faced them in the first game and we know how difficult it was and this will not be an exception. "The quality of the manager and the backroom staff shows in the position in the table. They were promoted last season and are already safe with 42 points... They've done incredibly well all season." City were boosted this week by the announcement that Kevin De Bruyne had signed a new contract, committing him to the club until 2025. Seeing it through would take the 29-year-old playmaker up to a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola said: "I'm glad an important player like Kevin, who can have all the world in his hands and all the clubs would be delighted to have him, has decided to stay with us. "I think it's a big compliment for all at Manchester City."

Guardiola overwhelmed by Bielsa's 'magical man' tribute

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season.

The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League.

Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

"He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday.

"He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it.&nbsp;

"He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that.

"A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager."

The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term.

Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland.

But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year.

"So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said.

"Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future.

"Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player."

<h2>- Painful memories -</h2>

Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid.

With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign.

City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011.

Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years.

The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take.

"Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said.

"It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through.

"Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance."

The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund.

"Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said.

"The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre. City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season. The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League. Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. "He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday. "He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it. "He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that. "A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager." The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term. Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland. But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year. "So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said. "Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future. "Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player." - Painful memories - Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid. With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign. City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011. Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years. The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take. "Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said. "It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through. "Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance." The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund. "Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said. "The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Guardiola hails 'exceptional' Haaland amid bid talk

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far.

Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique.

"Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola.

"I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won).

"So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him."

Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club.

"We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said.

"We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them."

Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow.

Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season.

Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968.

But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures.

"When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said.

"Of course the fans always will be grateful."

This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero.

He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection.

However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style.

"I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far. Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique. "Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola. "I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won). "So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him." Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club. "We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said. "We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them." Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow. Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season. Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968. But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures. "When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said. "Of course the fans always will be grateful." This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero. He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection. However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style. "I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

'Irreplaceable' Aguero won hearts and minds of City fans: Guardiola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded his team's form in the recent months and called their greatest achievements after their quadruple bid remained intact following Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final win over Everton.

Man City beat Ancelotti's Everton 2-0 following late goals from Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin de Bruyne to reach the semi-finals of the competition.

The club has now won 29 of their last 33 games in all competitions during the last four months, securing three draws and losing only once during the spell.

"What we have done is more than remarkable. It's incredible," Guardiola said. "One of the greatest achievements we have done together.

"When you win a lot of games like we have in the last four months, it's because you can adapt. That pleases me the most.

"In this winter time, playing every three days, with incredible commitment in every competition, I don't have any words to express that.

"(But) we haven't won anything yet, so we will be focused and we will see how far we arrive in the competitions."

The club is comfortable on top of the Premier League with a lead of 14 points.&nbsp;

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded his team's form in the recent months and called their greatest achievements after their quadruple bid remained intact following Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final win over Everton.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded his team's form in the recent months and called their greatest achievements after their quadruple bid remained intact following Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final win over Everton. Man City beat Ancelotti's Everton 2-0 following late goals from Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin de Bruyne to reach the semi-finals of the competition. The club has now won 29 of their last 33 games in all competitions during the last four months, securing three draws and losing only once during the spell. "What we have done is more than remarkable. It's incredible," Guardiola said. "One of the greatest achievements we have done together. "When you win a lot of games like we have in the last four months, it's because you can adapt. That pleases me the most. "In this winter time, playing every three days, with incredible commitment in every competition, I don't have any words to express that. "(But) we haven't won anything yet, so we will be focused and we will see how far we arrive in the competitions." The club is comfortable on top of the Premier League with a lead of 14 points.

'It's incredible': Pep Guardiola lauds Manchester City's match-winning form

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded City product, Jadon Sancho, on doing well with Borussia Dortmund in Bundesliga and said that he does not regret losing him.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juve-star-cristiano-ronaldo-named-serie-as-player-of-the-year-371813" hreflang="en">Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo named Serie A's Player of the Year</a>

In 2017, Sancho, who was a product of City's academy, rejected a new contract at the Premier League club when he was 17 to join Dortmund in 2017.

The 20-year-old has flourished at the German club, scoring 46 goals in 127 games in all competitions.

"I've said many times, it is not a regret," Guardiola said. "He decides. He is a national team player with huge quality, doing really well in Dortmund.

"We wanted him to stay but he decided to leave, and when people decide to leave all we can do is (let them) leave.

"I wish him all the best, except when he plays against us. No regrets at all. If he's happy, I'm happy.

Sancho is set to meet Guardiola's City in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.&nbsp;

"We will face him, try to control him - we know the quality he has, everyone knows."

Manchester City are seen as favourites in the European Championship due to their dominant run in Premier League. They have 71 points after 30 games and are toppers of the Premier League table.&nbsp;

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded City product, Jadon Sancho, on doing well with Borussia Dortmund in Bundesliga and said that he does not regret losing him.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola lauded City product, Jadon Sancho, on doing well with Borussia Dortmund in Bundesliga and said that he does not regret losing him. ALSO READ: Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo named Serie A's Player of the Year In 2017, Sancho, who was a product of City's academy, rejected a new contract at the Premier League club when he was 17 to join Dortmund in 2017. The 20-year-old has flourished at the German club, scoring 46 goals in 127 games in all competitions. "I've said many times, it is not a regret," Guardiola said. "He decides. He is a national team player with huge quality, doing really well in Dortmund. "We wanted him to stay but he decided to leave, and when people decide to leave all we can do is (let them) leave. "I wish him all the best, except when he plays against us. No regrets at all. If he's happy, I'm happy. Sancho is set to meet Guardiola's City in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. "We will face him, try to control him - we know the quality he has, everyone knows." Manchester City are seen as favourites in the European Championship due to their dominant run in Premier League. They have 71 points after 30 games and are toppers of the Premier League table.

'Not a regret': Pep Guardiola on Jadon Sancho's Manchester City exit

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1.

City are now 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League as they close in on a third title in four years.

A 21-game winning run for Guardiola's men came to an end against Manchester United on Sunday.

But City offered the second-placed Red Devils little extra encouragement that there was a route back into the title race as Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne both struck twice.

Guardiola, though, was still furious after VAR did not intervene when Alex McCarthy wiped out Phil Foden after overrunning the ball.

The England midfielder tried to stay on his feet to tap into an empty net, but, after the chance slipped away, VAR did not tell referee Jon Moss to review the incident.

"Jon cannot see it but that the VAR is there and don't whistle the penalty is incredible," said Guardiola.

"You know after four years I don't talk about the referees, but this action is incredible.

"Maybe one day they will explain us really the rule for all the players, managers.

"That's why I am proud because in this club, I don't know in others, what we have done in these past years we won it ourselves that's for sure."

City's winning run had started against Southampton back in December when the Saints were flying high and above the now champions-elect in the table.

However, Ralph Hasenhuttl's men have taken just nine points from their last 15 games to tumble down to 14th.

The visitors made a bright start before their leaky defence began to creak when faced with City's array of attacking talent.

De Bruyne smashed home the opener off the underside of the bar after McCarthy had parried Foden's shot on 15 minutes.

The lead only lasted 10 minutes, though, as Jannik Vestegaard was hauled down by Aymeric Laporte after his initial header had been parried by Ederson.

James Ward-Prowse coolly converted the penalty straight down the middle.

Moments later came City's penalty appeal, but to their credit the home side turned their anger from that injustice into goals before the break.

The brilliant Mahrez pounced on a stray Che Adams pass before curling into the bottom corner on his favoured left foot.

<h2>- 'Quality of players' -</h2>

The Algerian was also the creator for City's third as his right-footed effort came back off the post and Ilkay Gundogan was in the right place to stroke home his 14th goal of the season.

"We won because of the quality of the players we had on the pitch," added Guardiola. "It's important for Kevin and Riyad to score goals. We need them."

Goals continued to flow at both ends after the break as Mahrez wriggled clear in the box again to fire in City's fourth.

A miserly defensive record had been key to the run that allowed Guardiola's side to streak clear at the top of the table.

But they have now conceded six goals in their last four games.

With John Stones rested, Laporte did little to further his chances of starting the big upcoming Champions League games. The Frenchman was again at fault as Adams drilled a loose ball home from close range.

Again City responded almost immediately as Foden teed up De Bruyne to score his second of the evening.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1. City are now 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League as they close in on a third title in four years. A 21-game winning run for Guardiola's men came to an end against Manchester United on Sunday. But City offered the second-placed Red Devils little extra encouragement that there was a route back into the title race as Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne both struck twice. Guardiola, though, was still furious after VAR did not intervene when Alex McCarthy wiped out Phil Foden after overrunning the ball. The England midfielder tried to stay on his feet to tap into an empty net, but, after the chance slipped away, VAR did not tell referee Jon Moss to review the incident. "Jon cannot see it but that the VAR is there and don't whistle the penalty is incredible," said Guardiola. "You know after four years I don't talk about the referees, but this action is incredible. "Maybe one day they will explain us really the rule for all the players, managers. "That's why I am proud because in this club, I don't know in others, what we have done in these past years we won it ourselves that's for sure." City's winning run had started against Southampton back in December when the Saints were flying high and above the now champions-elect in the table. However, Ralph Hasenhuttl's men have taken just nine points from their last 15 games to tumble down to 14th. The visitors made a bright start before their leaky defence began to creak when faced with City's array of attacking talent. De Bruyne smashed home the opener off the underside of the bar after McCarthy had parried Foden's shot on 15 minutes. The lead only lasted 10 minutes, though, as Jannik Vestegaard was hauled down by Aymeric Laporte after his initial header had been parried by Ederson. James Ward-Prowse coolly converted the penalty straight down the middle. Moments later came City's penalty appeal, but to their credit the home side turned their anger from that injustice into goals before the break. The brilliant Mahrez pounced on a stray Che Adams pass before curling into the bottom corner on his favoured left foot. - 'Quality of players' - The Algerian was also the creator for City's third as his right-footed effort came back off the post and Ilkay Gundogan was in the right place to stroke home his 14th goal of the season. "We won because of the quality of the players we had on the pitch," added Guardiola. "It's important for Kevin and Riyad to score goals. We need them." Goals continued to flow at both ends after the break as Mahrez wriggled clear in the box again to fire in City's fourth. A miserly defensive record had been key to the run that allowed Guardiola's side to streak clear at the top of the table. But they have now conceded six goals in their last four games. With John Stones rested, Laporte did little to further his chances of starting the big upcoming Champions League games. The Frenchman was again at fault as Adams drilled a loose ball home from close range. Again City responded almost immediately as Foden teed up De Bruyne to score his second of the evening.

Five-goal Man City overcome 'incredible' penalty call to beat Southampton

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed Gabriel Jesus' impact in Tuesday's 4-1 Premier League win at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers after the Brazilian's brace sent them 15 points clear at the top of the table.

City took an early lead through an own goal from Wolves defender Leander Dendoncker before the visitors found the equaliser around the hour mark through Conor Coady.

But Jesus put City back in control with an 80th-minute strike before Riyad Mahrez added another. The 23-year-old Jesus completed his double in injury time to wrap up City's 21st straight win in all competitions.

"You cannot imagine how happy we are when Gabriel can score the goals he does," Guardiola said of the striker who has 11 goals and three assists in 27 games for City in all competitions this season.

"You cannot imagine how many things, that people don't realise, he does for the team. How he helps us in our first pressing and intensity, he's a joy of a guy," Guardiola said.

"We know it's not in the statistic, it's not in the highlights, but the influence in our games, what he does and (people) never realise he does, is amazing."

City host second-placed Manchester United in a derby match on Sunday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed Gabriel Jesus' impact in Tuesday's 4-1 Premier League win at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers after the Brazilian's brace sent them 15 points clear at the top of the table.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed Gabriel Jesus' impact in Tuesday's 4-1 Premier League win at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers after the Brazilian's brace sent them 15 points clear at the top of the table. City took an early lead through an own goal from Wolves defender Leander Dendoncker before the visitors found the equaliser around the hour mark through Conor Coady. But Jesus put City back in control with an 80th-minute strike before Riyad Mahrez added another. The 23-year-old Jesus completed his double in injury time to wrap up City's 21st straight win in all competitions. "You cannot imagine how happy we are when Gabriel can score the goals he does," Guardiola said of the striker who has 11 goals and three assists in 27 games for City in all competitions this season. "You cannot imagine how many things, that people don't realise, he does for the team. How he helps us in our first pressing and intensity, he's a joy of a guy," Guardiola said. "We know it's not in the statistic, it's not in the highlights, but the influence in our games, what he does and (people) never realise he does, is amazing." City host second-placed Manchester United in a derby match on Sunday.

Manchester City forward Jesus is a 'joy of a guy', says Guardiola

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple.

City have set a record for an English top-flight team after reeling off 20 successive victories in all competitions.

It is the third-best winning streak among teams in Europe's leading five leagues, behind only Bayern Munich's 23 in a row in 2020 and Real Madrid's 22 successive victories in 2014.

City are 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League, face a League Cup final date with Tottenham and remain in contention to win the Champions League and FA Cup.

But City boss Guardiola has no intention of letting his players get distracted by the praise with a frantic schedule ahead of them.

"We don't have time," Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Wolves. "There are many games, every three days a game, so we have to rest and think of the next one.

"We are delighted with what we have done so far, we cannot deny it. If no team has done it before it means how difficult it is.

"But, at the end, what counts in the world is if you lift the trophies or not. Still we cannot sit down on the sofa and say how good everything is."

West Ham manager David Moyes described City as the best side in Europe after the London club were beaten 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

But Guardiola insisted that accolade was premature.

"The best team in Europe is Bayern Munich because they won everything, they are the best. In England the champions are Liverpool, they are the best," Guardiola said.

"The crown, if you want to take it, you have to win. In February, March no one is champion."

Guardiola, whose side are chasing a third English title in four seasons, said there were still a lot of points still to play for.

"There are tough opponents," said the Catalan. "When you have 10 points left, or 12 or 15, it is another issue but, with 36, it is many.

"We know how important this week is, with Wolves, (Manchester) United and Southampton before travelling to Fulham, these three games at home.

"If we are able to do what we want to do we will make an incredible step but we have to do many things still."

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple. City have set a record for an English top-flight team after reeling off 20 successive victories in all competitions. It is the third-best winning streak among teams in Europe's leading five leagues, behind only Bayern Munich's 23 in a row in 2020 and Real Madrid's 22 successive victories in 2014. City are 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League, face a League Cup final date with Tottenham and remain in contention to win the Champions League and FA Cup. But City boss Guardiola has no intention of letting his players get distracted by the praise with a frantic schedule ahead of them. "We don't have time," Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Wolves. "There are many games, every three days a game, so we have to rest and think of the next one. "We are delighted with what we have done so far, we cannot deny it. If no team has done it before it means how difficult it is. "But, at the end, what counts in the world is if you lift the trophies or not. Still we cannot sit down on the sofa and say how good everything is." West Ham manager David Moyes described City as the best side in Europe after the London club were beaten 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. But Guardiola insisted that accolade was premature. "The best team in Europe is Bayern Munich because they won everything, they are the best. In England the champions are Liverpool, they are the best," Guardiola said. "The crown, if you want to take it, you have to win. In February, March no one is champion." Guardiola, whose side are chasing a third English title in four seasons, said there were still a lot of points still to play for. "There are tough opponents," said the Catalan. "When you have 10 points left, or 12 or 15, it is another issue but, with 36, it is many. "We know how important this week is, with Wolves, (Manchester) United and Southampton before travelling to Fulham, these three games at home. "If we are able to do what we want to do we will make an incredible step but we have to do many things still."

Guardiola says record-breaking Man City won't rest on their laurels

Pep Guardiola rates Manchester City's 20-game winning run as one of the greatest achievements of his glittering career.

City moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over West Ham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Guardiola's side are unbeaten in 27 games and their run of 20 successive victories in all competitions is a record for an English top-flight side.

The Spaniard has won 29 trophies as a manager with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City, including consecutive Premier League titles in 2018 and 2019.

But Guardiola believes City's remarkable winning streak this season, amid a pandemic and despite injuries to Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne, is up there with his finest moments.

"It is so difficult. Twenty in this period, in this era, with this situation around the world. To be able to do 20 is maybe one of the greatest achievements we have done together in our careers," Guardiola said.

"That doesn't mean we will win titles but we have not had one week's rest in three months. A game every three days, with the Covid situation, injury situations - to make this winning run shows mental strength."

City weren't at their best against in-form West Ham, but Guardiola was delighted with the way they fought for the points.

"We didn't paint something nice but there are many of these games during the season," he said.

"It was obvious to every person who saw the game it was really tough. The opposition is incredible, well composed.

"So, a big compliment to West Ham. After 26 fixtures they were in the Champions League positions. They have everything.

"It was a really tough game but that is good for us for the coming games, to realise what is going to happen."

Pep Guardiola rates Manchester City's 20-game winning run as one of the greatest achievements of his glittering career. City moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over West Ham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola rates Manchester City's 20-game winning run as one of the greatest achievements of his glittering career. City moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over West Ham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Guardiola's side are unbeaten in 27 games and their run of 20 successive victories in all competitions is a record for an English top-flight side. The Spaniard has won 29 trophies as a manager with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City, including consecutive Premier League titles in 2018 and 2019. But Guardiola believes City's remarkable winning streak this season, amid a pandemic and despite injuries to Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne, is up there with his finest moments. "It is so difficult. Twenty in this period, in this era, with this situation around the world. To be able to do 20 is maybe one of the greatest achievements we have done together in our careers," Guardiola said. "That doesn't mean we will win titles but we have not had one week's rest in three months. A game every three days, with the Covid situation, injury situations - to make this winning run shows mental strength." City weren't at their best against in-form West Ham, but Guardiola was delighted with the way they fought for the points. "We didn't paint something nice but there are many of these games during the season," he said. "It was obvious to every person who saw the game it was really tough. The opposition is incredible, well composed. "So, a big compliment to West Ham. After 26 fixtures they were in the Champions League positions. They have everything. "It was a really tough game but that is good for us for the coming games, to realise what is going to happen."

Guardiola ranks Man City's record run as one of his greatest feats

Manchester City moved to the verge of the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach&nbsp;on Wednesday but coach Pep Guardiola insisted his team still need to "be more clinical up front".

A first half header from Bernardo Silva and a Gabriel Jesus strike in the second period of the last 16 first leg tie extended a winning streak by Guardiola's high-flying side to 19 games in all competitions.

Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;leaders City camped inside the Gladbach half for most of the game, which was moved to Hungary due to Germany's Covid-19 travel restrictions.

Although dominant, City took time to break down a stubborn German defence, often foiled by the interceptions of Algeria left-back Ramy Bensebaini.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Guardiola said afterwards he was "pleased" with the result, he added City "have to improve" to challenge for&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;honours.

"We controlled the game. Unfortunately we were not clinical up front, it is something we have to improve in this competition, we were not good enough in the box, we didn't dribble and shoot enough," said Guardiola.&nbsp;

"In this competition you have to be perfect to be sure you can go through," he said.

Debutants in the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;knockout stages, Gladbach had been urged by coach Marco Rose to be brave against Guardiola's side.

France's Alassane Plea was almost through on goal on 20 minutes after a rare counterattack, but a nervy and deep-lying Gladbach eventually succumbed to mounting pressure in the 29th minute.

A sublime inch-perfect cross by Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo curled over the defence from the left to reach his compatriot Silva who flicked his close-range header past Yann Sommer.

"We tried to play simple and not make mistakes. It's a good win for us, but it's not over yet," Silva told BT Sport.

"Every time when he plays (Silva) is an exceptional player, he's really good in the air, the goal was fantastic how he finished it," said Guardiola.

The 26-year-old Cancelo, impressive throughout, nearly doubled the lead five minutes from the break but his shot from just outside the box pinged over the bar.

Then early in the second half Jesus should have converted after latching on to a poorly judged backpass by Bensebaini but saw his shot blocked by Swiss defender Nico Elvedi.

Apart from a lunging backheel from Plea that flashed just wide of Ederson's far post on the hour mark, City comfortably contained the Germans, and went two up in the 65th minute.

Another majestic cross-field pass by Cancelo again found Silva at Sommer's far post who this time headed back across the goalmouth for Jesus to fire home and seal City's 19th successive victory and sixth&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;clean sheet in a row.

Gladbach, who managed just one shot on target throughout the game, an effort by substitute Hannes Wolf saved by Ederson in the last moments, now face a formidable task to turn around the tie in the return leg scheduled for March 16 in Manchester.&nbsp;

"We deservedly lost today against a very strong team, you don't get many chances against such an opponent, we simply couldn't attack more," said Rose

"It would have been good to score at the end to be in a better position."

Manchester City moved to the verge of the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Wednesday but coach Pep Guardiola insisted his team still need to "be more clinical up front".

Manchester City moved to the verge of the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Wednesday but coach Pep Guardiola insisted his team still need to "be more clinical up front". A first half header from Bernardo Silva and a Gabriel Jesus strike in the second period of the last 16 first leg tie extended a winning streak by Guardiola's high-flying side to 19 games in all competitions. Premier League leaders City camped inside the Gladbach half for most of the game, which was moved to Hungary due to Germany's Covid-19 travel restrictions. Although dominant, City took time to break down a stubborn German defence, often foiled by the interceptions of Algeria left-back Ramy Bensebaini. While Guardiola said afterwards he was "pleased" with the result, he added City "have to improve" to challenge for Champions League honours. "We controlled the game. Unfortunately we were not clinical up front, it is something we have to improve in this competition, we were not good enough in the box, we didn't dribble and shoot enough," said Guardiola. "In this competition you have to be perfect to be sure you can go through," he said. Debutants in the Champions League knockout stages, Gladbach had been urged by coach Marco Rose to be brave against Guardiola's side. France's Alassane Plea was almost through on goal on 20 minutes after a rare counterattack, but a nervy and deep-lying Gladbach eventually succumbed to mounting pressure in the 29th minute. A sublime inch-perfect cross by Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo curled over the defence from the left to reach his compatriot Silva who flicked his close-range header past Yann Sommer. "We tried to play simple and not make mistakes. It's a good win for us, but it's not over yet," Silva told BT Sport. "Every time when he plays (Silva) is an exceptional player, he's really good in the air, the goal was fantastic how he finished it," said Guardiola. The 26-year-old Cancelo, impressive throughout, nearly doubled the lead five minutes from the break but his shot from just outside the box pinged over the bar. Then early in the second half Jesus should have converted after latching on to a poorly judged backpass by Bensebaini but saw his shot blocked by Swiss defender Nico Elvedi. Apart from a lunging backheel from Plea that flashed just wide of Ederson's far post on the hour mark, City comfortably contained the Germans, and went two up in the 65th minute. Another majestic cross-field pass by Cancelo again found Silva at Sommer's far post who this time headed back across the goalmouth for Jesus to fire home and seal City's 19th successive victory and sixth Champions League clean sheet in a row. Gladbach, who managed just one shot on target throughout the game, an effort by substitute Hannes Wolf saved by Ederson in the last moments, now face a formidable task to turn around the tie in the return leg scheduled for March 16 in Manchester. "We deservedly lost today against a very strong team, you don't get many chances against such an opponent, we simply couldn't attack more," said Rose "It would have been good to score at the end to be in a better position."

Guardiola demands more as Man City cruise to brink of Champions League last eight

Manchester City will not change their approach for Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg encounter with Borussia Moenchengladbach but cannot get complacent, manager Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday.

Premier League leaders City beat Arsenal 1-0 last Sunday to extend their winning streak in all competitions to 18 games and will be firm favourites against Gladbach but Guardiola said his side must show the German team the respect they deserve.

"We're going to prepare it like a normal game and we're going to tell the players what Gladbach are as a team like we have done against Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton," Guardiola told a news conference.

"We're not going to change anything - just adapt for what they are. We're not used to playing against them. They must know what they are individually and play a good game to try to get a good result like we have done so far.

"We chase a lot of competitions. We played two days ago, we arrived late from London and now have a long trip... We have to be focused on what we have to do."

Gladbach finished second in Group B that included Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk and Inter Milan to advance and Guardiola said he was well aware of their threats.

"They make a good buildup with short passes and can contact with their fast strikers with transitions," he said.

"All teams deserve incredible respect and hopefully they respect us as well. We'll try to get a good result for the second leg."

The match will be played in Budapest with the fixture having been moved due to Germany's COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Guardiola said that all his players barring Nathan Ake are available for selection.

Manchester City will not change their approach for Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg encounter with Borussia Moenchengladbach but cannot get complacent, manager Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday.

Manchester City will not change their approach for Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg encounter with Borussia Moenchengladbach but cannot get complacent, manager Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday. Premier League leaders City beat Arsenal 1-0 last Sunday to extend their winning streak in all competitions to 18 games and will be firm favourites against Gladbach but Guardiola said his side must show the German team the respect they deserve. "We're going to prepare it like a normal game and we're going to tell the players what Gladbach are as a team like we have done against Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton," Guardiola told a news conference. "We're not going to change anything - just adapt for what they are. We're not used to playing against them. They must know what they are individually and play a good game to try to get a good result like we have done so far. "We chase a lot of competitions. We played two days ago, we arrived late from London and now have a long trip... We have to be focused on what we have to do." Gladbach finished second in Group B that included Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk and Inter Milan to advance and Guardiola said he was well aware of their threats. "They make a good buildup with short passes and can contact with their fast strikers with transitions," he said. "All teams deserve incredible respect and hopefully they respect us as well. We'll try to get a good result for the second leg." The match will be played in Budapest with the fixture having been moved due to Germany's COVID-19 travel restrictions. Guardiola said that all his players barring Nathan Ake are available for selection.

Guardiola backs Manchester City to continue good form against Gladbach

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign?

Liverpool were expected to push City all the way but the champions have stumbled so badly that their only concern going into the Merseyside derby against Everton is getting back into the top four.

Chelsea, in action at Southampton, hold that lucrative fourth Champions League berth thanks to an impressive unbeaten start to Thomas Tuchel's reign.

<h2>Guardiola's masterpiece</h2>

When the final whistle blew on Manchester City's 17th successive victory in all competitions, Pep Guardiola was one step closer to the most impressive feat of his five years in the Premier League.&nbsp;

City's composed 3-1 dismissal of Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday left them 10 points clear of second-placed Manchester United with 14 games left.

They are the first English top-flight side to begin a calendar year with 10 successive league wins.&nbsp;

Guardiola has already won two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup with City.&nbsp;

But finding a way to navigate through City's poor start to the season while also dealing with the loss of all-time leading scorer Sergio Aguero for most of the campaign and a significant Covid-19 outbreak in the camp burnishes his legacy.

Guardiola's astute tactical tweaks have been key to the revival, but he knows the dangers of resting on his laurels during a hectic programme.

"Winning 10 straight games at the start of the calendar year is nice but next is Arsenal," he said. "It's better you don't see the schedule, otherwise you get depressed. But at the same time, it's a beautiful challenge."

<h2>Liverpool revenge mission</h2>

As Virgil van Dijk lay in agony on the Goodison Park turf, Liverpool's season began a painful decline that still haunts them five months later.

Van Dijk has not played since suffering knee damage after an ugly challenge from Everton keeper Jordan Pickford during that 2-2 draw in October.

The absence of the imperious Dutch centre-back has been the most obvious reason for Liverpool's unexpected collapse as they lost their long unbeaten home league record and fell out of the title race.

Ravaged by injuries and suffering from burnout after their first title in 30 years, Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp look so overwrought that rumours circulated after last weekend's loss at Leicester that the German was ready to resign.

Klopp brushed that off and Liverpool took a small step on the road to recovery when they won 2-0 against Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday.

Saturday's Merseyside derby at Anfield will pose an intriguing test of sixth-placed Liverpool's mettle.

Will the chance to avenge that season-defining meeting earlier this season re-light their fire or can Everton deal another blow to their rivals' top-four hopes?

After three successive league defeats, a cautious Klopp said: "We are not children anymore, so we don't think everything is fine because we won one game. It is much more important that we played good football again."

<h2>Tuchel impresses</h2>

Thomas Tuchel is enjoying a blissful honeymoon period as Chelsea's manager prepares to take his team to misfiring Southampton looking for a sixth consecutive victory.

Every manager who marries his fortunes to Chelsea's demanding owner Roman Abramovich eventually gets divorce papers, but for now Tuchel is defying his reputation as a combative personality capable of starting a fight in an empty room.

The former Paris Saint-Germain boss, who replaced Frank Lampard in January, has won over his new players by offering a clean slate to some who had been exiled by his predecessor, while impressing others with astute game-plans and rigorous training methods.

The results have been immediate, with Chelsea back up to fourth after going unbeaten in Tuchel's six matches in all competitions.

Fixtures (all times GMT):

Friday

Wolves v Leeds (2000)

Saturday

Southampton v Chelsea (1230), Burnley v West Brom (1500), Liverpool v Everton (1730), Fulham v Sheffield United (2000)

Sunday

West Ham v Tottenham (1200), Aston Villa v Leicester (1400), Arsenal v Man City (1630), &nbsp;Manchester United v Newcastle (1900)

Monday

Brighton v Crystal Palace (2000)

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign?

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign? Liverpool were expected to push City all the way but the champions have stumbled so badly that their only concern going into the Merseyside derby against Everton is getting back into the top four. Chelsea, in action at Southampton, hold that lucrative fourth Champions League berth thanks to an impressive unbeaten start to Thomas Tuchel's reign. Guardiola's masterpiece When the final whistle blew on Manchester City's 17th successive victory in all competitions, Pep Guardiola was one step closer to the most impressive feat of his five years in the Premier League. City's composed 3-1 dismissal of Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday left them 10 points clear of second-placed Manchester United with 14 games left. They are the first English top-flight side to begin a calendar year with 10 successive league wins. Guardiola has already won two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup with City. But finding a way to navigate through City's poor start to the season while also dealing with the loss of all-time leading scorer Sergio Aguero for most of the campaign and a significant Covid-19 outbreak in the camp burnishes his legacy. Guardiola's astute tactical tweaks have been key to the revival, but he knows the dangers of resting on his laurels during a hectic programme. "Winning 10 straight games at the start of the calendar year is nice but next is Arsenal," he said. "It's better you don't see the schedule, otherwise you get depressed. But at the same time, it's a beautiful challenge." Liverpool revenge mission As Virgil van Dijk lay in agony on the Goodison Park turf, Liverpool's season began a painful decline that still haunts them five months later. Van Dijk has not played since suffering knee damage after an ugly challenge from Everton keeper Jordan Pickford during that 2-2 draw in October. The absence of the imperious Dutch centre-back has been the most obvious reason for Liverpool's unexpected collapse as they lost their long unbeaten home league record and fell out of the title race. Ravaged by injuries and suffering from burnout after their first title in 30 years, Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp look so overwrought that rumours circulated after last weekend's loss at Leicester that the German was ready to resign. Klopp brushed that off and Liverpool took a small step on the road to recovery when they won 2-0 against Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday. Saturday's Merseyside derby at Anfield will pose an intriguing test of sixth-placed Liverpool's mettle. Will the chance to avenge that season-defining meeting earlier this season re-light their fire or can Everton deal another blow to their rivals' top-four hopes? After three successive league defeats, a cautious Klopp said: "We are not children anymore, so we don't think everything is fine because we won one game. It is much more important that we played good football again." Tuchel impresses Thomas Tuchel is enjoying a blissful honeymoon period as Chelsea's manager prepares to take his team to misfiring Southampton looking for a sixth consecutive victory. Every manager who marries his fortunes to Chelsea's demanding owner Roman Abramovich eventually gets divorce papers, but for now Tuchel is defying his reputation as a combative personality capable of starting a fight in an empty room. The former Paris Saint-Germain boss, who replaced Frank Lampard in January, has won over his new players by offering a clean slate to some who had been exiled by his predecessor, while impressing others with astute game-plans and rigorous training methods. The results have been immediate, with Chelsea back up to fourth after going unbeaten in Tuchel's six matches in all competitions. Fixtures (all times GMT): Friday Wolves v Leeds (2000) Saturday Southampton v Chelsea (1230), Burnley v West Brom (1500), Liverpool v Everton (1730), Fulham v Sheffield United (2000) Sunday West Ham v Tottenham (1200), Aston Villa v Leicester (1400), Arsenal v Man City (1630), Manchester United v Newcastle (1900) Monday Brighton v Crystal Palace (2000)

Guardiola inspires Man City masterclass, Liverpool face Everton test

Manchester City secured a record 15th straight victory in all competitions with a 3-1 win at Championship side Swansea City in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday.

The victory run is a record for a top-flight team, surpassing the 14 successive wins achieved by Preston in 1892 and Arsenal in 1987.

City, who made seven changes from the team who won 4-1 at champions Liverpool on Sunday, took the lead in the 30th minute with a low cross-shot from Kyle Walker which sneaked in at the far post.

Pep Guardiola's side doubled the advantage two minutes after halftime when Raheem Sterling was left free on the left and converted confidently.

Brazilian Gabriel Jesus made it three with wonderful control and a shot on the turn after collecting a header across the area from Bernardo Silva.

Morgan Whittaker pulled a goal back for the Welsh side in the 77th minute but the only real downside for City was an injury to midfielder Rodri.

The last game City failed to win was against West Bromwich Albion at the Etihad Stadium on Dec. 15 and Wednesday's victory was Guardiola's 200th in 268 games in charge of the club.

"We came to win that was the most important thing. We cannot deny how pleased and how proud we are to break this record from a long time ago. Records are there to be broken. It is not easy in the modern era to do 15 games in a row. We are happy for our club," the Spaniard said.

Manchester City secured a record 15th straight victory in all competitions with a 3-1 win at Championship side Swansea City in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday.

Manchester City secured a record 15th straight victory in all competitions with a 3-1 win at Championship side Swansea City in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday. The victory run is a record for a top-flight team, surpassing the 14 successive wins achieved by Preston in 1892 and Arsenal in 1987. City, who made seven changes from the team who won 4-1 at champions Liverpool on Sunday, took the lead in the 30th minute with a low cross-shot from Kyle Walker which sneaked in at the far post. Pep Guardiola's side doubled the advantage two minutes after halftime when Raheem Sterling was left free on the left and converted confidently. Brazilian Gabriel Jesus made it three with wonderful control and a shot on the turn after collecting a header across the area from Bernardo Silva. Morgan Whittaker pulled a goal back for the Welsh side in the 77th minute but the only real downside for City was an injury to midfielder Rodri. The last game City failed to win was against West Bromwich Albion at the Etihad Stadium on Dec. 15 and Wednesday's victory was Guardiola's 200th in 268 games in charge of the club. "We came to win that was the most important thing. We cannot deny how pleased and how proud we are to break this record from a long time ago. Records are there to be broken. It is not easy in the modern era to do 15 games in a row. We are happy for our club," the Spaniard said.

Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness.&nbsp;

Bernardo, after a tough 2019-20 season, has shown glimpses of his previous self, where fans and pundits lauded him as one of the finest midfielders in the world. More than glimpses, it has been Bernardo’s consistency and&nbsp;versatility that has allowed Man City to perfectly execute their game-plan in many matches of the ongoing 2020-21 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of Man City’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, Guardiola said Bernardo understands each position perfectly.&nbsp;

“Bernardo Silva&nbsp;is so intelligent.&nbsp;He can play everywhere, even holding midfielder. He understands the game perfectly. He understands each position he has to play,” Guardiola said in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

Bernardo returned with a brace in Man City’s FA Cup match against Birmingham including a thumping left-footed volley which left Guardiola mighty impressed. The Portuguese has been working hard and has already played in various positions including right wing, left wing, forward and in different parts of midfield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I am incredibly delighted with the two goals because he is fighting to score,” Guardiola added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-to-face-liverpool-in-fa-cup-4th-round-356201" hreflang="en">Man Utd to face Liverpool in FA Cup 4th round</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣 𝑷𝑬𝑷 𝑻𝑨𝑳𝑲 🗣 
 
A word from the boss... 
 
💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/marathonbet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@marathonbet</a> 
🔷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klUGiM">https://t.co/axa0klUGiM</a> <a href="https://t.co/JjzN2X8ifK">pic.twitter.com/JjzN2X8ifK</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1349003198095269888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Analysing&nbsp;Man City’s next opponent, Brighton, Guardiola said that the club is a delight to watch and a joy to&nbsp;analyse. He revealed that he has already warned the Man City players to be at a high standard if they want to beat Brighton.&nbsp;

“Brighton&nbsp;are a joy to watch. A joy to&nbsp;analyse.&nbsp;I said to the players today, we have to be at a high standard to beat them. Forget the results we had in the past - they are better in all departments. They create more than they conceded,” Guardiola said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-to-play-fulham-instead-of-villa-after-virus-issues-356100" hreflang="en">Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues</a>

Man&nbsp;City will take on Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday with the&nbsp;Cityzens&nbsp;looking to climb the Premier League points table with their matches in hand.&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness. Bernardo, after a tough 2019-20 season, has shown glimpses of his previous self, where fans and pundits lauded him as one of the finest midfielders in the world. More than glimpses, it has been Bernardo’s consistency and versatility that has allowed Man City to perfectly execute their game-plan in many matches of the ongoing 2020-21 season. Ahead of Man City’s Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, Guardiola said Bernardo understands each position perfectly. “Bernardo Silva is so intelligent. He can play everywhere, even holding midfielder. He understands the game perfectly. He understands each position he has to play,” Guardiola said in the pre-match press conference. Bernardo returned with a brace in Man City’s FA Cup match against Birmingham including a thumping left-footed volley which left Guardiola mighty impressed. The Portuguese has been working hard and has already played in various positions including right wing, left wing, forward and in different parts of midfield. “I am incredibly delighted with the two goals because he is fighting to score,” Guardiola added. ALSO READ: Man Utd to face Liverpool in FA Cup 4th round 🗣 𝑷𝑬𝑷 𝑻𝑨𝑳𝑲 🗣 A word from the boss... 💬 @marathonbet 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klUGiM pic.twitter.com/JjzN2X8ifK — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 12, 2021 × Analysing Man City’s next opponent, Brighton, Guardiola said that the club is a delight to watch and a joy to analyse. He revealed that he has already warned the Man City players to be at a high standard if they want to beat Brighton. “Brighton are a joy to watch. A joy to analyse. I said to the players today, we have to be at a high standard to beat them. Forget the results we had in the past - they are better in all departments. They create more than they conceded,” Guardiola said. ALSO READ: Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues Man City will take on Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday with the Cityzens looking to climb the Premier League points table with their matches in hand.

'He understands the game perfectly': Bernardo Silva delights Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead.

Four Premier League matches have so far been called off, including City's trip to Everton last month, but a different approach appears to have been taken in the FA Cup over the weekend.

Both Aston Villa and Derby fielded sides made up of youth players for their third-round ties after their entire first-team squads were told to isolate.

The Premier League last week called on players to tone down their celebrations in a set of reinforced Covid-19 protocols that also emphasised the need to avoid handshakes and shirt-swapping.

Britain is grappling with its worst outbreak of the disease since it hit the country early last year, though elite sport is allowed to continue.

City's own problems with the virus have continued, with Sergio Aguero forced to miss Sunday's 3-0 victory over Birmingham in the FA Cup third round.

The Argentine has been told to self-isolate after it was discovered he is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for the virus.

<h2>&nbsp;- 'Strange feeling' -&nbsp;</h2>

City have already been without eight other players following positive tests at various stages since Christmas Day.

Guardiola said the club would follow the new protocols but he said it was unrealistic to expect players not to celebrate goals.&nbsp;

"All of us (involved on match days) are tested negative, every two days. I don't know what is going to happen -- but one guy scores a goal, the joy to celebrate it, I don't know if he is going to think 'I cannot hug my mate for two, three seconds'," he said.

"There are teams with four or five cases and played 10 players from the under-23s in the FA Cup. We are four or five, the same situation, and we are here.

"One guy is isolated and the group has to continue. So, I don't know. We follow what the people say at the club, the Premier League. We follow the rules. That is what it is."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta agreed with his former boss at City that it was tough for footballers to keep emotions in check, following scenes of changing-room celebrations after FA Cup games.

"To control emotions when you are playing at 200 mph is very difficult," he said. "We are asking our players at corners for example to be man-marking people, pushing people around and not fist-bump anyone."

Newcastle manager Steve Bruce last week questioned the morality of continuing to play during the worsening pandemic and Arteta acknowledged the unusual situation.

"Morally, with the situation we have in the country and the situation we have worldwide, to keep doing what we are doing, is a little bit of a strange feeling," he said.

"We know what we can bring to society if we are able to do it in a safe way."

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead.

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead. Four Premier League matches have so far been called off, including City's trip to Everton last month, but a different approach appears to have been taken in the FA Cup over the weekend. Both Aston Villa and Derby fielded sides made up of youth players for their third-round ties after their entire first-team squads were told to isolate. The Premier League last week called on players to tone down their celebrations in a set of reinforced Covid-19 protocols that also emphasised the need to avoid handshakes and shirt-swapping. Britain is grappling with its worst outbreak of the disease since it hit the country early last year, though elite sport is allowed to continue. City's own problems with the virus have continued, with Sergio Aguero forced to miss Sunday's 3-0 victory over Birmingham in the FA Cup third round. The Argentine has been told to self-isolate after it was discovered he is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for the virus. - 'Strange feeling' - City have already been without eight other players following positive tests at various stages since Christmas Day. Guardiola said the club would follow the new protocols but he said it was unrealistic to expect players not to celebrate goals. "All of us (involved on match days) are tested negative, every two days. I don't know what is going to happen -- but one guy scores a goal, the joy to celebrate it, I don't know if he is going to think 'I cannot hug my mate for two, three seconds'," he said. "There are teams with four or five cases and played 10 players from the under-23s in the FA Cup. We are four or five, the same situation, and we are here. "One guy is isolated and the group has to continue. So, I don't know. We follow what the people say at the club, the Premier League. We follow the rules. That is what it is." Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta agreed with his former boss at City that it was tough for footballers to keep emotions in check, following scenes of changing-room celebrations after FA Cup games. "To control emotions when you are playing at 200 mph is very difficult," he said. "We are asking our players at corners for example to be man-marking people, pushing people around and not fist-bump anyone." Newcastle manager Steve Bruce last week questioned the morality of continuing to play during the worsening pandemic and Arteta acknowledged the unusual situation. "Morally, with the situation we have in the country and the situation we have worldwide, to keep doing what we are doing, is a little bit of a strange feeling," he said. "We know what we can bring to society if we are able to do it in a safe way."

Man City boss Guardiola confused by football's virus rules

Pep Guardiola dedicated Manchester City's 2-0 win over Manchester United to reach a fourth consecutive League Cup final on Wednesday to the family of Colin Bell, a day after the City great died aged 74.

John Stones and Fernandinho were the unlikely goalscorers for Guardiola's men, who will face Jose Mourinho's Tottenham in the final at Wembley on April 25.

Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City during a 13-year career in which he won five major trophies.

City players warmed up in number eight shirts in honour of Bell's old number.

A minute's silence was held before kick-off with Bell's former teammate Mike Summerbee reduced to tears as he watched on from the stands.

"That's for him and his family. This person helps to build something for this club," said Guardiola.

"It is an incredible victory for us to beat United away and reach another final and, especially today, it is for him."

City now have the chance to equal Liverpool's record between 1981 and 1984 of winning four successive League Cups.

"I know the Carabao (League) Cup is not the Champions League but four times a row is incredible," added Guardiola. "I'm so impressed with the quality of this team."

<h2>- 'Not enough' from United -</h2>

Mourinho was United boss the last time they lifted a trophy in 2017 and the Red Devils' wait for silverware under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer goes on as they lost a fourth semi-final in the past two seasons.

"It's not psychological, sometimes you meet good teams in the semis," said Solskjaer, whose side also lost to City at this stage of the competition last season.

"We met the best team in England and for me we didn't have enough today.

"But we're getting closer. This is a much better Manchester United compared to a year ago in those semis, that's positive but not enough."

Both sides have hauled themselves back into contention for the Premier League title in recent weeks, but neither manager took the opportunity to rest key players as both made just two changes from the weekend.

Any fears of a repeat of the goalless draw between the sides last month in the league were quickly dispelled as both had goals ruled out inside the first five minutes.

Stones breathed a sigh of relief when his own goal was chalked off for offside by Marcus Rashford in the build-up before Ilkay Gundogan was also denied by the offside flag.

Zack Steffen was deputising for first-choice goalkeeper Ederson, who was one of City's absentees due to a coronavirus outbreak, and the American produced an incredible save to deny Bruno Fernandes his 16th goal of the season with a curling effort that was destined for the top corner.

City looked more like their old selves in a thrilling first-half performance to blow away Chelsea on Sunday and they were inches away from the opener thanks to a stunning move that started deep inside their own half and ended with Kevin De Bruyne smashing against the post from the edge of the area.

The deadlock was finally broken five minutes into the second half when Stones cushioned in Foden's free-kick with his thigh for his first goal in three years.

The England international's poor form saw him fall down the pecking order in recent seasons, but City have now kept nine clean sheets in the 11 games Stones has started this season as he has formed a formidable partnership with Ruben Dias.

City's issues this season have been at the other end and they again failed to make the most of their chances in the second half.

Joao Cancelo's piledriver flew just over before Dean Henderson made fine saves to deny Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez.

However, Henderson could only watch as Fernandinho volleyed into the bottom corner after United failed to clear a corner for his first goal in two years, seven minutes from time.

Pep Guardiola dedicated Manchester City's 2-0 win over Manchester United to reach a fourth consecutive League Cup final on Wednesday to the family of Colin Bell, a day after the City great died aged 74.

Pep Guardiola dedicated Manchester City's 2-0 win over Manchester United to reach a fourth consecutive League Cup final on Wednesday to the family of Colin Bell, a day after the City great died aged 74. John Stones and Fernandinho were the unlikely goalscorers for Guardiola's men, who will face Jose Mourinho's Tottenham in the final at Wembley on April 25. Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City during a 13-year career in which he won five major trophies. City players warmed up in number eight shirts in honour of Bell's old number. A minute's silence was held before kick-off with Bell's former teammate Mike Summerbee reduced to tears as he watched on from the stands. "That's for him and his family. This person helps to build something for this club," said Guardiola. "It is an incredible victory for us to beat United away and reach another final and, especially today, it is for him." City now have the chance to equal Liverpool's record between 1981 and 1984 of winning four successive League Cups. "I know the Carabao (League) Cup is not the Champions League but four times a row is incredible," added Guardiola. "I'm so impressed with the quality of this team." - 'Not enough' from United - Mourinho was United boss the last time they lifted a trophy in 2017 and the Red Devils' wait for silverware under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer goes on as they lost a fourth semi-final in the past two seasons. "It's not psychological, sometimes you meet good teams in the semis," said Solskjaer, whose side also lost to City at this stage of the competition last season. "We met the best team in England and for me we didn't have enough today. "But we're getting closer. This is a much better Manchester United compared to a year ago in those semis, that's positive but not enough." Both sides have hauled themselves back into contention for the Premier League title in recent weeks, but neither manager took the opportunity to rest key players as both made just two changes from the weekend. Any fears of a repeat of the goalless draw between the sides last month in the league were quickly dispelled as both had goals ruled out inside the first five minutes. Stones breathed a sigh of relief when his own goal was chalked off for offside by Marcus Rashford in the build-up before Ilkay Gundogan was also denied by the offside flag. Zack Steffen was deputising for first-choice goalkeeper Ederson, who was one of City's absentees due to a coronavirus outbreak, and the American produced an incredible save to deny Bruno Fernandes his 16th goal of the season with a curling effort that was destined for the top corner. City looked more like their old selves in a thrilling first-half performance to blow away Chelsea on Sunday and they were inches away from the opener thanks to a stunning move that started deep inside their own half and ended with Kevin De Bruyne smashing against the post from the edge of the area. The deadlock was finally broken five minutes into the second half when Stones cushioned in Foden's free-kick with his thigh for his first goal in three years. The England international's poor form saw him fall down the pecking order in recent seasons, but City have now kept nine clean sheets in the 11 games Stones has started this season as he has formed a formidable partnership with Ruben Dias. City's issues this season have been at the other end and they again failed to make the most of their chances in the second half. Joao Cancelo's piledriver flew just over before Dean Henderson made fine saves to deny Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez. However, Henderson could only watch as Fernandinho volleyed into the bottom corner after United failed to clear a corner for his first goal in two years, seven minutes from time.

Guardiola dedicates derby win to Man City legend Bell

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.&nbsp;

Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain.&nbsp;

“We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-the-premier-league-get-suspended-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-353425" hreflang="en">Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know</a> 
 
“It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added.

Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will.

“We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. &nbsp;But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-miss-chance-to-stretch-lead-after-newcastle-stalemate-353543" hreflang="en">Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate</a>

Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected.

Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate. Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain. “We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday. ALSO READ: Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know “It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added. Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will. “We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said. ALSO READ: Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected. Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.

5 Man City players isolating after testing positive for coronavirus

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