Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic.&nbsp;

"Medical equipment that is currently lacking in health centres in Catalonia," the body said in a statement.

FC Barcelona's captain Lionel Messi has also donated a certain amount to a clinic in Barcelona, the hospital took to Twitter saying: "Thank you, Leo, for your support and commitment."

Spain has been one of the hot-bed for the new coronavirus, it has been the second worst-hit country after Italy in Europe.&nbsp;

More than 380,000 cases have been registered worldwide. Additionally, over 16,500 have died. The global tally of the recovered patients so far stands at 100,000.

According to the Spanish prime minister’s office, the country currently has over 39,673 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The virus has killed 2,696 people in the country.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic. "Medical equipment that is currently lacking in health centres in Catalonia," the body said in a statement. FC Barcelona's captain Lionel Messi has also donated a certain amount to a clinic in Barcelona, the hospital took to Twitter saying: "Thank you, Leo, for your support and commitment." Spain has been one of the hot-bed for the new coronavirus, it has been the second worst-hit country after Italy in Europe. More than 380,000 cases have been registered worldwide. Additionally, over 16,500 have died. The global tally of the recovered patients so far stands at 100,000. According to the Spanish prime minister’s office, the country currently has over 39,673 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The virus has killed 2,696 people in the country.

Coronavirus: Pep Guardiola donates one million euros to medical college in Spain

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-lyon-stun-cristiano-ronaldos-juventus-in-the-first-leg-fixture-282987" hreflang="en">Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture</a>

Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Manchester City was the better team on pitch during the match and missed a big chance in the 21st minute after Kevin De Bruyne, and Jesus failed to go past Courtois but conceded a goal struck by Isco in the 60th Minute.

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🔵 Manchester City have beaten Real Madrid for the first time in their history 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/cw0eVart0E">pic.twitter.com/cw0eVart0E</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1232807221022593024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Gabriel Jesus scored an equaliser in the 78th minute after hitting the ball from 12 yards after Carvajal brought down substitute Raheem Sterling.

Kevin De Bruyne's 83rd-minute penalty sealed a comeback win for Manchester City.

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🔵 Comeback! Gabriel Jesus &amp; Kevin De Bruyne inspire turnaround in Madrid ⚽️⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/0AFdGk9dxv">pic.twitter.com/0AFdGk9dxv</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1232784084100960261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Manchester City is probably playing their final European Cup before being banned for two years and they are making the most of it.

Guardiola, with just one year remaining on his contract, will look forward to winning the Champions League with the English side.

Real Madrid was on the back foot right from the beginning. They hit 9 shots (3 on target), whereas, Man City struck 16 shots out of which they had 8 on target.

Manchester held 52 per cent of the possession whereas 48 was held by Real Madrid. Sergio Ramos was sent off after a desperate attempt on Gabriel by the Madrid captain to avoid another goal.

Sergio Ramos' red card has Real Madrid worried for the reverse fixture.

&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League. Manchester City was the better team on pitch during the match and missed a big chance in the 21st minute after Kevin De Bruyne, and Jesus failed to go past Courtois but conceded a goal struck by Isco in the 60th Minute. 🔵 Manchester City have beaten Real Madrid for the first time in their history 💪#UCL pic.twitter.com/cw0eVart0E — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 26, 2020 × Gabriel Jesus scored an equaliser in the 78th minute after hitting the ball from 12 yards after Carvajal brought down substitute Raheem Sterling. Kevin De Bruyne's 83rd-minute penalty sealed a comeback win for Manchester City. 🔵 Comeback! Gabriel Jesus & Kevin De Bruyne inspire turnaround in Madrid ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/0AFdGk9dxv — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 26, 2020 × Manchester City is probably playing their final European Cup before being banned for two years and they are making the most of it. Guardiola, with just one year remaining on his contract, will look forward to winning the Champions League with the English side. Real Madrid was on the back foot right from the beginning. They hit 9 shots (3 on target), whereas, Man City struck 16 shots out of which they had 8 on target. Manchester held 52 per cent of the possession whereas 48 was held by Real Madrid. Sergio Ramos was sent off after a desperate attempt on Gabriel by the Madrid captain to avoid another goal. Sergio Ramos' red card has Real Madrid worried for the reverse fixture.

Champions League: Guardiola's masterclass ensures Man City comeback against Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-empty-etihad-stadium-witnesses-first-manchester-city-win-after-uefa-ban-281761">Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban</a>

On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million.&nbsp;

After the ban, Bartomeu said: "In this regard, we thank UEFA, who in recent years has been so sure to follow up on Financial Fair Play. At Barca, we have been following it and we have regular investigations or we have meetings at UEFA to explain how we are doing it. From here we want to support UEFA for all the good it does in football."

Pep in a post-match conference after win over West Ham said: “If they're happy that we are suspended I would say to the president of Barca to give us two appeals. I ask right now that the people trust what they (City) have done."&nbsp;

Pep warned Barcelona: "Don't talk too loud, Barcelona, that's my advice, because everybody is involved in situations. We're going to appeal and hopefully, in the future, we can play in the Champions League against Barcelona."

Guardiola even ensured his fans that he will stay in Manchester City despite UEFA Ban as some speculations of him wanting to "quit" after UEFA ban was making rounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March 17.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City. Also read: Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016.

Pep Guardiola takes a jibe at his former club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu after he praised UEFA for imposing a two-year ban on Manchester City. Also read: Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million. After the ban, Bartomeu said: "In this regard, we thank UEFA, who in recent years has been so sure to follow up on Financial Fair Play. At Barca, we have been following it and we have regular investigations or we have meetings at UEFA to explain how we are doing it. From here we want to support UEFA for all the good it does in football." Pep in a post-match conference after win over West Ham said: “If they're happy that we are suspended I would say to the president of Barca to give us two appeals. I ask right now that the people trust what they (City) have done." Pep warned Barcelona: "Don't talk too loud, Barcelona, that's my advice, because everybody is involved in situations. We're going to appeal and hopefully, in the future, we can play in the Champions League against Barcelona." Guardiola even ensured his fans that he will stay in Manchester City despite UEFA Ban as some speculations of him wanting to "quit" after UEFA ban was making rounds. Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March 17.

Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban

Manchester City beat West Ham and 2-0 and resumed their Premier League campaign in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsene-wenger-slams-manchester-city-over-uefa-ban-says-cant-go-unpunished-281333">Arsene Wenger slams Manchester City over UEFA ban, says 'can't go unpunished</a>

This was the first match played by Manchester City after UEFA imposed a two-year ban on playing any European tournaments on Pep Guardiola's side.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/latest-sports-news-klopp-shows-sympathy-for-guardiola-after-man-city-european-ban-280882">Klopp shows sympathy for Guardiola after Manchester City European ban</a>

Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne's goal helped Manchester City cruise towards victory in the Premier League maintaining their second position in the points table.&nbsp;

On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="aa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a74e884c-80e7-4530-8632-1ffe5c82ba74" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_74.jpg" />

The ban has taken a toll on Manchester City as they lose many supporters, according to reports 10,000 seats were empty during the match. Few reports suggest that this could also be due to the fact the fixture was rescheduled from its original date 10 days earlier due to storms.

There were banners during the match which read "UEFA Cartel" and "UEFA Mafia", taunts were heard during the match where people chanted "we'll see you in court".&nbsp;

<img alt="aa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c88fd0c3-6430-4c88-9bc1-f8b0efb80ee8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_53.jpg" />

Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March &nbsp;17.&nbsp;

Manchester City beat West Ham and 2-0 and resumed their Premier League campaign in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. Also read: Arsene Wenger slams Manchester City over UEFA ban, says 'can't go unpunished This was the first match played by Manchester City after UEFA imposed a two-year ban on playing any European tournaments on Pep Guardiola's side.

Manchester City beat West Ham and 2-0 and resumed their Premier League campaign in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. Also read: Arsene Wenger slams Manchester City over UEFA ban, says 'can't go unpunished This was the first match played by Manchester City after UEFA imposed a two-year ban on playing any European tournaments on Pep Guardiola's side. Also read: Klopp shows sympathy for Guardiola after Manchester City European ban Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne's goal helped Manchester City cruise towards victory in the Premier League maintaining their second position in the points table. On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million. The ban has taken a toll on Manchester City as they lose many supporters, according to reports 10,000 seats were empty during the match. Few reports suggest that this could also be due to the fact the fixture was rescheduled from its original date 10 days earlier due to storms. There were banners during the match which read "UEFA Cartel" and "UEFA Mafia", taunts were heard during the match where people chanted "we'll see you in court". Manchester City will face Real Madrid for UEFA Champions League in the first leg of the round of 16 on March 17.

Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reacted to Manchester City's ban from European's competition. He said that such things "can't go unpunished". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-banned-from-european-competition-for-two-seasons-by-uefa-280763">UEFA bans Manchester City from European competition for two seasons</a>

Arsene Wenger shares a sour relationship with Manchester City, especially after he lost some of his best players to them. "They bought all my players," he joked in Berlin. He saw players like Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Adebayor (both in 2009), Gael Clichy, Samir Nasri (both 2011) and Bacary Sagna (in 2014) leave for the Manchester City.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-news-sachin-tendulkar-wins-laureus-award-for-sporting-moment-for-his-2011-world-cup-victory-lap-281243">Sachin Tendulkar wins Laureus Award for Sporting Moment for his 2011 World Cup victory lap</a>

Arsene Wenger was at the Laureus Sports Awards in Berlin which were held on Monday. He told the reporters to present there: "The rules are what they are and people who don't respect them... have to be punished,".

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lewis-hamilton-lionel-messi-simon-biles-score-big-at-laureus-awards-checkout-the-list-of-winners-281277">Lewis Hamilton, Lionel Messi, Simon Biles score big at Laureus Awards, here's the list of winners!</a>

"If it is proven that this has been done on purpose, you can not let that go unpunished," he added.&nbsp;

On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million.&nbsp;

The matter is to be taken up in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).&nbsp;

Manchester City has won 10 major Trophies ever since Abu Dhabi's powerful Sheikh Mansour took over the charge of the club in 2008. Out of 10 four of them are Premier League titles.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reacted to Manchester City's ban from European's competition. He said that such things "can't go unpunished". Also read: UEFA bans Manchester City from European competition for two seasons Arsene Wenger shares a sour relationship with Manchester City, especially after he lost some of his best players to them.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reacted to Manchester City's ban from European's competition. He said that such things "can't go unpunished". Also read: UEFA bans Manchester City from European competition for two seasons Arsene Wenger shares a sour relationship with Manchester City, especially after he lost some of his best players to them. "They bought all my players," he joked in Berlin. He saw players like Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Adebayor (both in 2009), Gael Clichy, Samir Nasri (both 2011) and Bacary Sagna (in 2014) leave for the Manchester City. Also read: Sachin Tendulkar wins Laureus Award for Sporting Moment for his 2011 World Cup victory lap Arsene Wenger was at the Laureus Sports Awards in Berlin which were held on Monday. He told the reporters to present there: "The rules are what they are and people who don't respect them... have to be punished,". Also see: Lewis Hamilton, Lionel Messi, Simon Biles score big at Laureus Awards, here's the list of winners! "If it is proven that this has been done on purpose, you can not let that go unpunished," he added. On Friday, UEFA found a "serious" fair-play breach by Manchester City from 2012 to 2016. UEFA imposed a two-year ban on Manchester City, they will be barred to play any European competitions for the next two seasons. Manchester City was also fined $32.5 million. The matter is to be taken up in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Manchester City has won 10 major Trophies ever since Abu Dhabi's powerful Sheikh Mansour took over the charge of the club in 2008. Out of 10 four of them are Premier League titles. (With inputs from AFP)

Arsene Wenger slams Manchester City over UEFA ban, says 'can't go unpunished'

Lionel Messi's latest jibe at Barcelona's sporting director Eric Abidal has led to fresh speculations regarding the Argentine superstar's future at the&nbsp;club.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Messi fires back at Barca sporting director Abidal after jibe</a>

Messi and Abidal were involved in a spat after sporting director's comments where he criticized Barca's first team's efforts on-field and Barca's sacked manager, Ernesto Valverde. He also targetted club legend Xavi for his comments about the offered managerial position.&nbsp;

The six-time-Ballon d'Or winner slammed his former teammate Abidal to name the players who did not put in efforts on-field.&nbsp;

Messi&nbsp;put up a story on Instagram:&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="Messi Story" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0cad245-8382-459f-a0d9-11b37ae457b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_14.jpg" /> 
Messi's Instagram story after Abidal's interview | (Instagram/@leomessi)</h6>

The translation of this story is:&nbsp; 
"I honestly don’t like to do these things but I think everyone has to be responsible for their tasks and take care of their decisions. The players for what happens on the pitch, and we are also the first to acknowledge when we were not good. Those responsible for the area of sports management must also assume their responsibilities and above all take charge of the decisions they make. Finally, I think that when talking about players, we should give names because otherwise, we are getting everyone dirty and feeding things that are said and are not true."

Lionel Messi's contract is coming to an end in 2021. According to reports, Messi might eye a big transfer move to Premier League giants Manchester City. Other teams are also keeping a close eye on the controversy. Signing him is impossible as his release clause is 700 million euros and hats the reason teams are waiting for the club legend's clause to expire.&nbsp;

According to reports, Messi is said to be frustrated in the injury-stricken club as he is playing for Spanish giant despite a thigh injury he sustained a few weeks ago. Ousmane Dembele and Luis Suarez have been confirmed to miss out the rest of the season.&nbsp;

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LATEST NEWS | During this morning’s training session, Ousmane Dembélé felt some discomfort in his right leg as a consequence of muscle fatigue. He will continue with his rehabilitation. <a href="https://t.co/rlK7IgHoGb">pic.twitter.com/rlK7IgHoGb</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1224337914416574465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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[LATEST NEWS❗] 
Medical communique<a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisSuarez9</a> will be out for four months 
📋 All the details, here<a href="https://t.co/LC8q3ZLF6S">https://t.co/LC8q3ZLF6S</a> <a href="https://t.co/HXwOEbZM51">pic.twitter.com/HXwOEbZM51</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1216377884429950976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Catalans' run in the La Liga has had a poor start to the year. They have won four of their seven fixtures, they lost two matches and drew one game. They are second in the La Liga points table, second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Barcelona's current manager Quique Setien refused to comment over the row he said:&nbsp;"I'm not going to get into Messi's life, or anyone's life,".

<img alt="Messi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c642653-26d3-4444-8e99-51974a1ded70" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_79.jpg" />

Abidal and Messi played together at Barcelona between 2007 and 2013, with the French defender returning to the club after retirement to become the sporting director in June 2018.

In his interview with Diario Sport, Abidal also said he thought Messi was happy at the club and a new contract for the Argentine talisman was currently being negotiated.

Lionel Messi's latest jibe at Barcelona's sporting director Eric Abidal has led to fresh speculations regarding the Argentine superstar's future at the club. Also read: Messi fires back at Barca sporting director Abidal after jibe Messi and Abidal were involved in a spat after sporting director's comments where he criticized Barca's first team's efforts on-field and Barca's sacked manager, Ernesto Valverde.

Lionel Messi's latest jibe at Barcelona's sporting director Eric Abidal has led to fresh speculations regarding the Argentine superstar's future at the club. Also read: Messi fires back at Barca sporting director Abidal after jibe Messi and Abidal were involved in a spat after sporting director's comments where he criticized Barca's first team's efforts on-field and Barca's sacked manager, Ernesto Valverde. He also targetted club legend Xavi for his comments about the offered managerial position. The six-time-Ballon d'Or winner slammed his former teammate Abidal to name the players who did not put in efforts on-field. Messi put up a story on Instagram: Messi's Instagram story after Abidal's interview | (Instagram/@leomessi) The translation of this story is: "I honestly don’t like to do these things but I think everyone has to be responsible for their tasks and take care of their decisions. The players for what happens on the pitch, and we are also the first to acknowledge when we were not good. Those responsible for the area of sports management must also assume their responsibilities and above all take charge of the decisions they make. Finally, I think that when talking about players, we should give names because otherwise, we are getting everyone dirty and feeding things that are said and are not true." Lionel Messi's contract is coming to an end in 2021. According to reports, Messi might eye a big transfer move to Premier League giants Manchester City. Other teams are also keeping a close eye on the controversy. Signing him is impossible as his release clause is 700 million euros and hats the reason teams are waiting for the club legend's clause to expire. According to reports, Messi is said to be frustrated in the injury-stricken club as he is playing for Spanish giant despite a thigh injury he sustained a few weeks ago. Ousmane Dembele and Luis Suarez have been confirmed to miss out the rest of the season. LATEST NEWS | During this morning’s training session, Ousmane Dembélé felt some discomfort in his right leg as a consequence of muscle fatigue. He will continue with his rehabilitation. pic.twitter.com/rlK7IgHoGb — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 3, 2020 × [LATEST NEWS❗] Medical communique@LuisSuarez9 will be out for four months 📋 All the details, herehttps://t.co/LC8q3ZLF6S pic.twitter.com/HXwOEbZM51 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 12, 2020 × The Catalans' run in the La Liga has had a poor start to the year. They have won four of their seven fixtures, they lost two matches and drew one game. They are second in the La Liga points table, second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid. Barcelona's current manager Quique Setien refused to comment over the row he said: "I'm not going to get into Messi's life, or anyone's life,". Abidal and Messi played together at Barcelona between 2007 and 2013, with the French defender returning to the club after retirement to become the sporting director in June 2018. In his interview with Diario Sport, Abidal also said he thought Messi was happy at the club and a new contract for the Argentine talisman was currently being negotiated.

Lionel Messi targets Abidal fueling Barcelona exit rumours

Steven Bergwijn's debut goal helped Tottenham to a remarkable 2-0 win over 10-man Manchester City on Sunday to breathe new life into their challenge for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Jose Mourinho's men had been completely outplayed for the first hour, but were kept in the game by City's profligacy and Hugo Lloris's first-half penalty save from Ilkay Gundogan.

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🔥 Sonny makes it two! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/THFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#THFC</a> ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/NRDWNknkqK">pic.twitter.com/NRDWNknkqK</a>
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However, Oleksandr Zinchenko's sending off changed the course of the game as Spurs scored with their first two shots on goal through Bergwijn and Son Heung-min.

Victory lifts Spurs up to fifth, just four points off fourth-placed Chelsea.

A sixth league defeat of the season for City sees Liverpool remain 22 points clear at the top and within touching distance of their first league title for 30 years.

"Liverpool are unstoppable. We dropped a lot of points in many games where we played quite similar as today," said City boss Pep Guardiola.

"This business is how many goals you score and how few you concede. We tried to play as good as possible. Always I believe you are closer to win the games if you create more chances and concede few.

"It happened a few times this season and we have to accept it."

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✨ A DREAM DEBUT ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/THFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#THFC</a> ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/BwzkwVdBJG">pic.twitter.com/BwzkwVdBJG</a>
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial/status/1224090464959324161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This was arguably the least anticipated of Mourinho and Pep Guardiola's 23 meetings as opposing managers, but it resorted to type as the Portuguese set up Spurs to defend deep, while City monopolised possession.

The visitors could have been out of sight by half-time as in a recurring theme of their season, the champions were wasteful in front of goal.

However, Tottenham also felt City were lucky not to be down to 10 men earlier when Raheem Sterling caught England international teammate Dele Alli with his studs.

"I thought I was going to love VAR the same way I love goal-line technology," said Mourinho. "With VAR there are too many mistakes, but that doesn't take out my pleasure (of the win)."

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Not the best way to celebrate 300 appearances for City today, but I would like to thank the fans, staff and my teammates for helping me toward achieving such an important mark in my football career. 🙏🏾 Stick together and fight till the end. <a href="https://t.co/izKfdB9tWM">pic.twitter.com/izKfdB9tWM</a>
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Lloris was making just his third appearance since returning from a long-term layoff due to a dislocated elbow, but the French number one was back to his best to keep his side level at half-time.

He turned Sergio Aguero's low shot onto the post before the Argentine was chopped down in the area by Serge Aurier.

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Referee Mike Dean initially waved play on, but with no break in play for a few minutes, he eventually stopped the game after being told to give a penalty by VAR.

City's dreadful run from the spot continued as Gundogan joined Gabriel Jesus and Sterling in failing to convert in recent weeks as his low effort was parried by Lloris.

Sterling then pounced on the rebound and went down over Lloris, but no second penalty was awarded and Sterling also escaped the possibility of a second booking for diving.

Gundogan was the guilty party again minutes into the second period when he hooked over with the goal gaping after a calamity of errors in the Spurs defence saw Lloris collide with Japhet Tanganga.

However, the game was decided in three minutes just after the hour mark.

Steven Bergwijn's debut goal helped Tottenham to a remarkable 2-0 win over 10-man Manchester City on Sunday to breathe new life into their challenge for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Steven Bergwijn's debut goal helped Tottenham to a remarkable 2-0 win over 10-man Manchester City on Sunday to breathe new life into their challenge for a top-four finish in the Premier League. Jose Mourinho's men had been completely outplayed for the first hour, but were kept in the game by City's profligacy and Hugo Lloris's first-half penalty save from Ilkay Gundogan. 🔥 Sonny makes it two! 🔥#THFC ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/NRDWNknkqK — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) February 2, 2020 × However, Oleksandr Zinchenko's sending off changed the course of the game as Spurs scored with their first two shots on goal through Bergwijn and Son Heung-min. Victory lifts Spurs up to fifth, just four points off fourth-placed Chelsea. A sixth league defeat of the season for City sees Liverpool remain 22 points clear at the top and within touching distance of their first league title for 30 years. "Liverpool are unstoppable. We dropped a lot of points in many games where we played quite similar as today," said City boss Pep Guardiola. "This business is how many goals you score and how few you concede. We tried to play as good as possible. Always I believe you are closer to win the games if you create more chances and concede few. "It happened a few times this season and we have to accept it." ✨ A DREAM DEBUT ✨#THFC ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/BwzkwVdBJG — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) February 2, 2020 × This was arguably the least anticipated of Mourinho and Pep Guardiola's 23 meetings as opposing managers, but it resorted to type as the Portuguese set up Spurs to defend deep, while City monopolised possession. The visitors could have been out of sight by half-time as in a recurring theme of their season, the champions were wasteful in front of goal. However, Tottenham also felt City were lucky not to be down to 10 men earlier when Raheem Sterling caught England international teammate Dele Alli with his studs. "I thought I was going to love VAR the same way I love goal-line technology," said Mourinho. "With VAR there are too many mistakes, but that doesn't take out my pleasure (of the win)." Not the best way to celebrate 300 appearances for City today, but I would like to thank the fans, staff and my teammates for helping me toward achieving such an important mark in my football career. 🙏🏾 Stick together and fight till the end. pic.twitter.com/izKfdB9tWM — Fernandinho (@fernandinho) February 2, 2020 × Lloris was making just his third appearance since returning from a long-term layoff due to a dislocated elbow, but the French number one was back to his best to keep his side level at half-time. He turned Sergio Aguero's low shot onto the post before the Argentine was chopped down in the area by Serge Aurier. Like the look of the #PL table? pic.twitter.com/xDL3EGLHzd — Premier League (@premierleague) February 2, 2020 × Referee Mike Dean initially waved play on, but with no break in play for a few minutes, he eventually stopped the game after being told to give a penalty by VAR. City's dreadful run from the spot continued as Gundogan joined Gabriel Jesus and Sterling in failing to convert in recent weeks as his low effort was parried by Lloris. Sterling then pounced on the rebound and went down over Lloris, but no second penalty was awarded and Sterling also escaped the possibility of a second booking for diving. Gundogan was the guilty party again minutes into the second period when he hooked over with the goal gaping after a calamity of errors in the Spurs defence saw Lloris collide with Japhet Tanganga. However, the game was decided in three minutes just after the hour mark.

Premier League: Tottenham weather Manchester City storm to snatch win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../guardiola-says-league-form-sets-standard-and- will-not-prioritise-cups-275700">Pep Guardiola</a> took a&nbsp;dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare.&nbsp;

Also Read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-tottenham-weather-manchester-city-storm-to-snatch-win-278220">Premier League: Tottenham weather Manchester City storm to snatch win</a>

“It doesn't take away from City's excellence, but we want the season to go to the last, I'd like multiple trophies needed in various locations on the last day because we don't know how it will end,” Richard had said angering members in the Manchester City management.&nbsp;

Liverpool is 22 points clear of the second positioned Man City with just 13 matches to go, to which Pep said: “The last two seasons, it was an owner from the Premier League that says that can’t happen again, City winning the titles that way with 100 points is not good for the Premier League, now it’s Liverpool, the owner has to be concerned again."&nbsp;

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— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1224060682670419969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Richard Scudamore is no more a part of the Premier League.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola has accepted that it is Liverpool's year to win the Premier League, he said: "They are far away so they are unstoppable. They have a lot of points, we have dropped points quite similar to today."

He also feels that his stay with Manchester City will be a failure until his side manages to win the Champions League.&nbsp;

"Our targets are to win the remaining competitions and qualify for the Champions League next season," he added. &nbsp;

Pep Guardiola took a dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare.

Pep Guardiola took a dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare. Also Read- Premier League: Tottenham weather Manchester City storm to snatch win “It doesn't take away from City's excellence, but we want the season to go to the last, I'd like multiple trophies needed in various locations on the last day because we don't know how it will end,” Richard had said angering members in the Manchester City management. Liverpool is 22 points clear of the second positioned Man City with just 13 matches to go, to which Pep said: “The last two seasons, it was an owner from the Premier League that says that can’t happen again, City winning the titles that way with 100 points is not good for the Premier League, now it’s Liverpool, the owner has to be concerned again." Like the look of the #PL table? pic.twitter.com/xDL3EGLHzd — Premier League (@premierleague) February 2, 2020 × Richard Scudamore is no more a part of the Premier League. Pep Guardiola has accepted that it is Liverpool's year to win the Premier League, he said: "They are far away so they are unstoppable. They have a lot of points, we have dropped points quite similar to today." He also feels that his stay with Manchester City will be a failure until his side manages to win the Champions League. "Our targets are to win the remaining competitions and qualify for the Champions League next season," he added.

Pep Guardiola takes a dig at ex-Premier League boss Scudamore

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-thrash-villa-with-sergio-agueros-record-breaking-hat-trick-273970">City's quest</a> for a third straight league title is realistically over after they fell 16 points behind Liverpool, who also have a game in hand on Guardiola's men. However, the bookmakers still believe City are the favourites to retain the League Cup and FA Cup and face Real Madrid in a blockbuster Champions League last 16 ties.

<img alt="Guardiola" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e5abf437-b11a-45b1-8adc-b420e12ce6a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2817%29_8.jpg" /> 
[ Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"To finish second, there always has to be something inside of us all to move forward and improve," said Guardiola. "You cannot play good games in the knockout games if you are not running well in the Premier League.

"It's not one day, you are bad and then good. You have to maintain the level as high as possible." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">City's quest for cup glory</a> will be aided by the return of Aymeric Laporte after five months out with a serious knee injury.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-guardiola-takes-dig-at-premier-league-says-thank-you-for-busy-festive-season-269649">Guardiola takes dig at Premier League, says 'thank you' for busy festive season</a>

The Frenchman has been badly missed at the heart of the City defence and he could make his return on Tuesday at Sheffield United. "Every day Aymeric is getting better," added Guardiola. "I have an idea for him but I have to think today and tonight and then we’ll see."

In contrast to City's disappointing league campaign, Sheffield United have massively overachieved on their return to the top flight. The Blades are seventh in the table and in the running to finish in the top four.

Guardiola is a big fan of United manager Chris Wilder with the use of overlapping centre-halves from his three-man defence catching the eye.&nbsp;"I'm incredibly impressed," said Guardiola. "If you can improve watching other games and other teams and other managers, then this is the one.

"I have never seen some of the movements that they are doing. There's a reason why they are in the position they are. "I admire how they play and how they are doing, with a high percentage of the same players from the Championship, League One and now in the Premier League. I like it."

City's quest for a third straight league title is realistically over after they fell 16 points behind Liverpool, who also have a game in hand on Guardiola's men.

City's quest for a third straight league title is realistically over after they fell 16 points behind Liverpool, who also have a game in hand on Guardiola's men. However, the bookmakers still believe City are the favourites to retain the League Cup and FA Cup and face Real Madrid in a blockbuster Champions League last 16 ties. [ Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "To finish second, there always has to be something inside of us all to move forward and improve," said Guardiola. "You cannot play good games in the knockout games if you are not running well in the Premier League. "It's not one day, you are bad and then good. You have to maintain the level as high as possible." City's quest for cup glory will be aided by the return of Aymeric Laporte after five months out with a serious knee injury. Also Read: Guardiola takes dig at Premier League, says 'thank you' for busy festive season The Frenchman has been badly missed at the heart of the City defence and he could make his return on Tuesday at Sheffield United. "Every day Aymeric is getting better," added Guardiola. "I have an idea for him but I have to think today and tonight and then we’ll see." In contrast to City's disappointing league campaign, Sheffield United have massively overachieved on their return to the top flight. The Blades are seventh in the table and in the running to finish in the top four. Guardiola is a big fan of United manager Chris Wilder with the use of overlapping centre-halves from his three-man defence catching the eye. "I'm incredibly impressed," said Guardiola. "If you can improve watching other games and other teams and other managers, then this is the one. "I have never seen some of the movements that they are doing. There's a reason why they are in the position they are. "I admire how they play and how they are doing, with a high percentage of the same players from the Championship, League One and now in the Premier League. I like it."

Guardiola says league form sets standard and will not prioritise cups

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-thrash-villa-with-sergio-agueros-record-breaking-hat-trick-273970">Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick</a>

The result leaves City 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand and host Manchester United on Sunday.

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18/19: 
 
Manchester United 0-0 Palace 
Manchester City 2-3 Palace 
 
19/20: 
 
Manchester United 1-2 Palace 
Manchester City 2-2 Palace 
 
Manchester is red AND blue.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/d88PNdax5M">pic.twitter.com/d88PNdax5M</a>
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Palace, who won this fixture last season, took the lead through new signing Cenk Tosun in the 39th minute, the Turkish forward, on loan from Everton, heading home at the back post after Gary Cahill had nodded a corner across the area.

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All that late goal drama... 
 
🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCICRY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCICRY</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFAHctczdY">pic.twitter.com/FFAHctczdY</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1218654682828152832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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City dominated but wasted the chances that came their way, Bernardo Silva blasting over from inside the box and, after the interval, Raheem Sterling shooting wide after breaking into the area.

Pep Guardiola thought his side had a penalty in the 71st minute when the referee ruled Jairo Riedewald had handled a Joao Cancelo cross, but the VAR review overturned the decision after it showed the ball had struck his leg before bouncing against his arm.

City finally got on level terms in the 82nd minute when Aguero slid in at the back post to convert a Gabriel Jesus ball for his 250th goal for the club in all competitions.

Minutes later the Argentine made it 2-1 with a fine, angled header from a Benjamin Mendy cross from the left.

But Palace grabbed a point after Wilfried Zaha powered past John Stones and his cross deflected in off Fernandinho and beat City goalkeeper Ederson.

It was City's third draw of the season and, combined with their five defeats, their bid for a third straight title now seems to be mostly a case of hoping for a miracle.

"It was a tight game and unfortunately we could not win it," said Guardiola.

"I told them (at half-time) to keep going. Put more balls into the box and try to control Zaha on the counter-attack. It's difficult to analyse when they shoot one corner, have no more chances, and we did many times and unfortunately could not win. We take it one game at a time," said the Spaniard.

The point moves Palace up to ninth place on 30 points and Tosun, who had struggled to make an impact at Everton, was delighted with his debut goal.

"To score was a great feeling as a striker needs confidence, and confidence comes with scoring goals," he said.

"We played a solid game, knew City would have more possession, but we scored a good two goals and I'm just glad I got one of them.

"It's a great feeling to score a goal in my first game but more than the goal was the point - that’s what mattered today."

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory.

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory. Also read: Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick The result leaves City 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand and host Manchester United on Sunday. 18/19: Manchester United 0-0 Palace Manchester City 2-3 Palace 19/20: Manchester United 1-2 Palace Manchester City 2-2 Palace Manchester is red AND blue.#CPFC pic.twitter.com/d88PNdax5M — Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) January 18, 2020 × Palace, who won this fixture last season, took the lead through new signing Cenk Tosun in the 39th minute, the Turkish forward, on loan from Everton, heading home at the back post after Gary Cahill had nodded a corner across the area. All that late goal drama... 🔵 #MCICRY #ManCity pic.twitter.com/FFAHctczdY — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 18, 2020 × City dominated but wasted the chances that came their way, Bernardo Silva blasting over from inside the box and, after the interval, Raheem Sterling shooting wide after breaking into the area. Pep Guardiola thought his side had a penalty in the 71st minute when the referee ruled Jairo Riedewald had handled a Joao Cancelo cross, but the VAR review overturned the decision after it showed the ball had struck his leg before bouncing against his arm. City finally got on level terms in the 82nd minute when Aguero slid in at the back post to convert a Gabriel Jesus ball for his 250th goal for the club in all competitions. Minutes later the Argentine made it 2-1 with a fine, angled header from a Benjamin Mendy cross from the left. But Palace grabbed a point after Wilfried Zaha powered past John Stones and his cross deflected in off Fernandinho and beat City goalkeeper Ederson. It was City's third draw of the season and, combined with their five defeats, their bid for a third straight title now seems to be mostly a case of hoping for a miracle. "It was a tight game and unfortunately we could not win it," said Guardiola. "I told them (at half-time) to keep going. Put more balls into the box and try to control Zaha on the counter-attack. It's difficult to analyse when they shoot one corner, have no more chances, and we did many times and unfortunately could not win. We take it one game at a time," said the Spaniard. The point moves Palace up to ninth place on 30 points and Tosun, who had struggled to make an impact at Everton, was delighted with his debut goal. "To score was a great feeling as a striker needs confidence, and confidence comes with scoring goals," he said. "We played a solid game, knew City would have more possession, but we scored a good two goals and I'm just glad I got one of them. "It's a great feeling to score a goal in my first game but more than the goal was the point - that’s what mattered today."

Premier League: City frustrated after Crystal Palace's last minute equalizer extends gap with Liverpool

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/funny-twitter-reactions-after-sergio-aguero-misses-penalty-against-tottenham-hotspur-in-champions-league-clash-209187">Sergio Aguero</a> became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-see-off-sheffield-united-but-var-questioned-again-270925">Manchester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday.

The Argentine striker struck the third, fifth and sixth goals as&nbsp;City&nbsp;ran riot at Villa Park, taking his league tally to 177, two more than Frenchman Thierry Henry managed for Arsenal and joint-fourth on the all-time list alongside Frank Lampard.

Slick&nbsp;City's resounding victory, in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/riyad-mahrez-lifts-manchester-city-back-to-premier-league-summit-200809">Riyad Mahrez </a>also scored twice and Gabriel Jesus once, meant they moved above <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irresistible-liverpool-thrash-leicester-270476">Leicester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;and trimmed Liverpool's lead to 14 points, although Liverpool has played a game less.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-go-16-points-clear-as-firmino-nets-winner-at-spurs-273678">Liverpool</a> looks uncatchable,&nbsp;City&nbsp;displayed the kind of devastating attacking football that makes them, on their day, the most eye-pleasing team in England.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-go-16-points-clear-as-firmino-nets-winner-at-spurs-273678">English Premier League: Liverpool continue dominance as Firmino nets winner at Spurs</a>

It was also a day for the 31-year-old Aguero, who signed for&nbsp;City&nbsp;in 2011, to confirm his status as one of the best imports ever to play in England's top flight.

In bagging a 12th Premier League hat-trick he surpassed the 11 of Alan Shearer with whom he had shared the record.

"Aguero is a legend and the legend rose tonight,"&nbsp;City&nbsp;manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-var-is-a-big-mess-says-guardiola-after-more-controversies-270921">Pep Guardiola</a> said. "I think he is one of the most incredible players I've seen in this league.

"The team is proud. We congratulated him in the locker room because to score this amount of goals and hat-tricks means you have done, for many years, a lot of good things. He has been consistent for many, many years."

Razor-sharp

While the day belonged to Aguero, it was Mahrez who put&nbsp;City&nbsp;in complete control with the opening two goals.

His dribble and shot caught out Villa keeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/striker-less-aston-villa-hold-on-for-draw-at-leicester-273173">Orjan Nyland</a> at his near post after 18 minutes and the Algerian struck again from close range six minutes later after Villa debutant Danny Drinkwater was caught in possession.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/striker-less-aston-villa-hold-on-for-draw-at-leicester-273173">EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester</a>

With Villa ripe for the picking Aguero got in on the action in the 28th minute when he was given far too much time to smash a shot that flew through the hands of Nyland.

It was 4-0 on the stroke of halftime when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-kevin-de-bruyne-ruled-out-for-six-weeks-due-to-knee-injury-175146">Kevin De Bruyne</a> advanced down the right and delivered a superb pass that took out Villa's defence, allowing Jesus to tap in.

Villa had dropped into the relegation zone before kickoff after Watford's win at Bournemouth and their afternoon was to get worse in the second half.

A razor-sharp Aguero moved clear of Henry when he danced across the area to score right-footed in the 58th minute and he continued to torment a sorry home side by ramming home his third after 81 minutes.

Villa, who have fallen to third from bottom, did not manage a shot on target until they were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after lkay Gundogan tripped Trezeguet.

Anwar El Ghazi tucked it away with the last kick of the game but it barely raised a smile.

"It was a chastening experience," Villa manager Dean Smith said. "We know they are a top class team but some of the goals we have given away were dreadful... We are embarrassed by some of the goals we have conceded today."

Sergio Aguero became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday.

Sergio Aguero became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday. The Argentine striker struck the third, fifth and sixth goals as City ran riot at Villa Park, taking his league tally to 177, two more than Frenchman Thierry Henry managed for Arsenal and joint-fourth on the all-time list alongside Frank Lampard. Slick City's resounding victory, in which Riyad Mahrez also scored twice and Gabriel Jesus once, meant they moved above Leicester City and trimmed Liverpool's lead to 14 points, although Liverpool has played a game less. While Liverpool looks uncatchable, City displayed the kind of devastating attacking football that makes them, on their day, the most eye-pleasing team in England. Also read: English Premier League: Liverpool continue dominance as Firmino nets winner at Spurs It was also a day for the 31-year-old Aguero, who signed for City in 2011, to confirm his status as one of the best imports ever to play in England's top flight. In bagging a 12th Premier League hat-trick he surpassed the 11 of Alan Shearer with whom he had shared the record. "Aguero is a legend and the legend rose tonight," City manager Pep Guardiola said. "I think he is one of the most incredible players I've seen in this league. "The team is proud. We congratulated him in the locker room because to score this amount of goals and hat-tricks means you have done, for many years, a lot of good things. He has been consistent for many, many years." Razor-sharp While the day belonged to Aguero, it was Mahrez who put City in complete control with the opening two goals. His dribble and shot caught out Villa keeper Orjan Nyland at his near post after 18 minutes and the Algerian struck again from close range six minutes later after Villa debutant Danny Drinkwater was caught in possession. Also read: EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester With Villa ripe for the picking Aguero got in on the action in the 28th minute when he was given far too much time to smash a shot that flew through the hands of Nyland. It was 4-0 on the stroke of halftime when Kevin De Bruyne advanced down the right and delivered a superb pass that took out Villa's defence, allowing Jesus to tap in. Villa had dropped into the relegation zone before kickoff after Watford's win at Bournemouth and their afternoon was to get worse in the second half. A razor-sharp Aguero moved clear of Henry when he danced across the area to score right-footed in the 58th minute and he continued to torment a sorry home side by ramming home his third after 81 minutes. Villa, who have fallen to third from bottom, did not manage a shot on target until they were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after lkay Gundogan tripped Trezeguet. Anwar El Ghazi tucked it away with the last kick of the game but it barely raised a smile. "It was a chastening experience," Villa manager Dean Smith said. "We know they are a top class team but some of the goals we have given away were dreadful... We are embarrassed by some of the goals we have conceded today."

Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-reports-270530">return to AC Milan</a> and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

The second-most successful club in Italy behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a> in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening.

Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a>. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock.

That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not.

It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US&nbsp;has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes.

Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy.

His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-looking-forward-to-fifth-season-with-manchester-city-269875">Pep Guardiola</a>, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby.

The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league.

With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far. The second-most successful club in Italy behind Juventus in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening. Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join Paris St Germain. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock. That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not. It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes. Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy. His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to Pep Guardiola, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby. The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league. With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Italy as final chapter looms

Pep Guardiola admitted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-resilient-chelsea-bounce-back-to-beat-manchester-city-2-1-267121">Manchester City's </a>faint hopes of retaining the Premier League title were in tatters as they blew a two-goal lead and had Ederson sent in a dramatic 3-2 defeat at Wolves on Friday.

Guardiola's side recovered from Ederson's 12th minute dismissal to take control thanks to Raheem Sterling's double either side of half-time.

But City's fatigued stars were unable to go the distance as Adama Traore's goal started a thrilling Wolves fightback.

Raul Jimenez equalised with eight minutes to go and Matt Doherty hit the winner to send Molineux wild in the 89th minute.

"Always the goals can be avoided but sometimes it's tiredness. It's a lot of minutes to defend with 10 men," Guardiola said.

"No regrets, they did absolutely everything to defend a result for 80 minutes but it was difficult."

Third-placed City trail runaway leaders Liverpool by 14 points and, Jurgen Klopp's red-hot team have a game in hand, making it hard to imagine the champions getting their hands on the trophy for a third successive season.&nbsp;

"It is a big gap for a long time. It's not a race if you think about it," Guardiola said.&nbsp;

"I have been asked the question for a long time and it is the same answer. It's not realistic to think about the title race.

"We have to think of the next game and about winning our games."

Wolves, flying high in fifth place, have contributed to City's downfall more than most and, after winning 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium in October, they celebrated a top-flight double over the Manchester club for the first time since 1960-61.

The only blemish for Wolves were the missiles thrown from the stands when City celebrated their second goal, an incident that prompted the Football Association to launch an investigation.

Referee Martin Atkinson was seen passing a metal hip flask to the fourth official as an announcement over the tannoy warned "numerous instances of objects being thrown have been seen. CCTV will be used to prosecute offenders".&nbsp;

It was a bitter night for Guardiola, whose team have lost five league games this season after being beaten just four times in the whole of last term.&nbsp;

City had looked closer to their best in recent wins over Arsenal and Leicester, but they could not have made a worse start at Molineux.

When Diogo Jota escaped with a well-timed run behind the City defence, Ederson rashly raced out of his area.

The Brazilian misjudged the bounce of the ball and clipped Jota, earning a red card. Guardiola then replaced Sergio Aguero with reserve keeper Claudio Bravo.

City responded by snatching the lead in controversial fashion in the 25th minute.

Riyad Mahrez made an incisive run that ended with Leander Dendoncker stepping on the Algerian's foot, leading VAR to award a penalty.

That was not the end of the drama as Sterling's spot-kick was saved by Rui Patricio, only for VAR to intervene again as the penalty was retaken for encroachment.

Relentless pressure&nbsp;

Sterling shot to the same side with his second kick, but although Patricio saved again, this time the winger followed up to tap in the rebound.

When Sterling doubled the lead in the 50th minute, City looked in charge.

Beating the offside trap with ease, Sterling ran onto Kevin De Bruyne's pass and clipped a deft finish over Patricio.

But Sterling's eventful night wasn't finished yet and, when he surrendered possession careless in midfield five minutes later, Wolves took advantage to reduce the deficit.

Traore's blistering pace makes him a tough opponent, so City backed off just enough to allow the wing-back to blast a low drive past Bravo from 20 yards.

Wolves' relentless pressure in the closing stages finally forced City to crack.

Benjamin Mendy made a mess of trying to shepherd the ball out for a goal-kick and Traore stole possession.

Traore crossed for Jimenez to stab past Bravo from close-range, leaving City's exhausted players on their knees in frustration.

There was even worse to come for City in the 89th minute as Doherty took Jimenez's backheel, slalomed past Nicolas Otamendi and smashed a fine finish into the far corner.

Pep Guardiola admitted Manchester City's faint hopes of retaining the Premier League title were in tatters as they blew a two-goal lead and had Ederson sent in a dramatic 3-2 defeat at Wolves on Friday.

Pep Guardiola admitted Manchester City's faint hopes of retaining the Premier League title were in tatters as they blew a two-goal lead and had Ederson sent in a dramatic 3-2 defeat at Wolves on Friday. Guardiola's side recovered from Ederson's 12th minute dismissal to take control thanks to Raheem Sterling's double either side of half-time. But City's fatigued stars were unable to go the distance as Adama Traore's goal started a thrilling Wolves fightback. Raul Jimenez equalised with eight minutes to go and Matt Doherty hit the winner to send Molineux wild in the 89th minute. "Always the goals can be avoided but sometimes it's tiredness. It's a lot of minutes to defend with 10 men," Guardiola said. "No regrets, they did absolutely everything to defend a result for 80 minutes but it was difficult." Third-placed City trail runaway leaders Liverpool by 14 points and, Jurgen Klopp's red-hot team have a game in hand, making it hard to imagine the champions getting their hands on the trophy for a third successive season. "It is a big gap for a long time. It's not a race if you think about it," Guardiola said. "I have been asked the question for a long time and it is the same answer. It's not realistic to think about the title race. "We have to think of the next game and about winning our games." Wolves, flying high in fifth place, have contributed to City's downfall more than most and, after winning 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium in October, they celebrated a top-flight double over the Manchester club for the first time since 1960-61. The only blemish for Wolves were the missiles thrown from the stands when City celebrated their second goal, an incident that prompted the Football Association to launch an investigation. Referee Martin Atkinson was seen passing a metal hip flask to the fourth official as an announcement over the tannoy warned "numerous instances of objects being thrown have been seen. CCTV will be used to prosecute offenders". It was a bitter night for Guardiola, whose team have lost five league games this season after being beaten just four times in the whole of last term. City had looked closer to their best in recent wins over Arsenal and Leicester, but they could not have made a worse start at Molineux. When Diogo Jota escaped with a well-timed run behind the City defence, Ederson rashly raced out of his area. The Brazilian misjudged the bounce of the ball and clipped Jota, earning a red card. Guardiola then replaced Sergio Aguero with reserve keeper Claudio Bravo. City responded by snatching the lead in controversial fashion in the 25th minute. Riyad Mahrez made an incisive run that ended with Leander Dendoncker stepping on the Algerian's foot, leading VAR to award a penalty. That was not the end of the drama as Sterling's spot-kick was saved by Rui Patricio, only for VAR to intervene again as the penalty was retaken for encroachment. Relentless pressure Sterling shot to the same side with his second kick, but although Patricio saved again, this time the winger followed up to tap in the rebound. When Sterling doubled the lead in the 50th minute, City looked in charge. Beating the offside trap with ease, Sterling ran onto Kevin De Bruyne's pass and clipped a deft finish over Patricio. But Sterling's eventful night wasn't finished yet and, when he surrendered possession careless in midfield five minutes later, Wolves took advantage to reduce the deficit. Traore's blistering pace makes him a tough opponent, so City backed off just enough to allow the wing-back to blast a low drive past Bravo from 20 yards. Wolves' relentless pressure in the closing stages finally forced City to crack. Benjamin Mendy made a mess of trying to shepherd the ball out for a goal-kick and Traore stole possession. Traore crossed for Jimenez to stab past Bravo from close-range, leaving City's exhausted players on their knees in frustration. There was even worse to come for City in the 89th minute as Doherty took Jimenez's backheel, slalomed past Nicolas Otamendi and smashed a fine finish into the far corner.

Manchester City's title bid fades after stunning loss against Wolves

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has played down the importance of managerial experience ahead of Thursday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-fa-overturn-spurs-striker-sons-red-card-for-tackle-on-evertons-gomes-260237">Premier League</a> game against Arsenal, who will play their first match under newly appointed head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-arsenal-boss-arteta-demands-accountability-from-players-269895">Mikel Arteta</a>.

Arteta, 37, was appointed Unai Emery's successor last week and the former Arsenal midfielder comes into the role having spent the last three years as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-denies-presence-of-break-clause-in-contract-with-manchester-city-268224">Pep Guardiola</a>'s assistant at defending champions Manchester City.

Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had said before Arteta's appointment that he had "no experience" as a manager and would need help but Howe, who was named Bournemouth's permanent manager at the age of 31 in 2009, begs to differ.

"It doesn't mean anything," Howe, 42, told reporters when asked about the advantage he had over Spaniard Arteta. "It's not about me and Mikel, it's about the players, how we implement what we do against Arsenal."

Howe, who had a short stint at Burnley before returning to Bournemouth in 2012, has already managed more than 500 matches in his career.

"The experience side of it as I found when I first came into the job when I was coming up against managers who had had all sorts of games the game is there to win, regardless of how many games you've got behind you," Howe said.

"He's taking over a fantastic club with great players and he'll have his own ideas and philosophies, built up over a number of years of how he wants his team to play."

Bournemouth, who are 14th, can move within a point of 11th-placed Arsenal with a home victory while the Gunners are looking for a first win in three matches.

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has played down the importance of managerial experience ahead of Thursday's Premier League game against Arsenal, who will play their first match under newly appointed head coach Mikel Arteta.

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has played down the importance of managerial experience ahead of Thursday's Premier League game against Arsenal, who will play their first match under newly appointed head coach Mikel Arteta. Arteta, 37, was appointed Unai Emery's successor last week and the former Arsenal midfielder comes into the role having spent the last three years as Pep Guardiola's assistant at defending champions Manchester City. Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had said before Arteta's appointment that he had "no experience" as a manager and would need help but Howe, who was named Bournemouth's permanent manager at the age of 31 in 2009, begs to differ. "It doesn't mean anything," Howe, 42, told reporters when asked about the advantage he had over Spaniard Arteta. "It's not about me and Mikel, it's about the players, how we implement what we do against Arsenal." Howe, who had a short stint at Burnley before returning to Bournemouth in 2012, has already managed more than 500 matches in his career. "The experience side of it as I found when I first came into the job when I was coming up against managers who had had all sorts of games the game is there to win, regardless of how many games you've got behind you," Howe said. "He's taking over a fantastic club with great players and he'll have his own ideas and philosophies, built up over a number of years of how he wants his team to play." Bournemouth, who are 14th, can move within a point of 11th-placed Arsenal with a home victory while the Gunners are looking for a first win in three matches.

Football: Arteta's lack of experience 'doesn't mean anything' to Bournemouth's Howe

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season.

City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a> by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him.

"This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me.

"Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future."

City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-guardiola-takes-dig-at-premier-league-says-thank-you-for-busy-festive-season-269649">Guardiola</a> praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches.

"Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front.

"Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games."

Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week.

"He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all."

Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign. The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing Liverpool by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him. "This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers. "I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me. "Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future." City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and Guardiola praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches. "Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front. "Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games." Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week. "He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all." Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

I have to see if I deserve a new contract: Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola insists he still has to earn a new contract at Manchester City despite winning five major trophies in the past two seasons.

City are keen for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-denies-presence-of-break-clause-in-contract-with-manchester-city-268224">Guardiola </a>to commit to a deal beyond the current one that ends in 2021.

But, in the midst of a frustrating season that sees City trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by 14 points, the 48-year-old says there is no rush to agree an extension, partly because performance will be a factor in his future.

"I have one more year and always I have to deserve to extend my contract," Guardiola told reporters on Friday.

"Managers, we have to get results. At this club you have to win. In football, we spoke about this, the situation changed a lot, managers today, even in this country, they change a lot.

"In just four or five months, how many managers have been sacked? So that's why we have to be patient and do our job.

"We still have a lot of time. So we have patience, we have an incredible relationship with the board, with the people who decide, and we will take the decision that is best for the club.

"I think in football one-and-a-half years is a long time for the managers, a lot of time, so we have to see altogether how it works, how it's going on."

Guardiola spent four years as Barcelona boss and three years with Bayern Munich before joining City in 2016.

He will have been at the Etihad Stadium for five years if he finishes his current City deal.

Some pundits believe that will mark the end of his reign, but Guardiola disagrees.

'Perfect for both sides'&nbsp;

"I said many times how incredible, what a good time I have here, and I would like to stay as long as possible," Guardiola said.

"So that is my desire. But I will only be sure if it's the best for the club that they want me to stay longer.

"So it will be five years with one club, in this competition, this league, it has many years, so that's why it's important to be sure the decision is perfect for both sides.

"That's why there's no rush, it's not finishing in three or four months. The club is working perfectly in all departments, so it's not a problem, honestly."

City face Leicester on Saturday, looking for the win to close the gap on the second-placed visitors to one point.

Guardiola will be without his assistant Mikel Arteta following the Spaniard's decision to take charge at Arsenal on Friday.

Rodolfo Borrell will step up to be the temporary assistant for Guardiola, although he has also been linked with joining Arteta.

"Yes he'll step up. From now on he wants to stay with me. We've not had any approach for him. We'll continue like this until the summer," Guardiola said.

City winger Riyad Mahrez will be hoping for a starting spot against former club Leicester and has fond memories of his time with the Foxes after their title triumph in 2016.

"My first title with Leicester is one of the medals that means the most to me, as well as the Africa Cup of Nations which was for my country and so there is a lot of emotion," he said.

"But with Leicester it was an unbelievable achievement, and no one thought we were going to make it. What we achieved together was unbelievable and so that club means a lot to me.

"I am not surprised by them, they are a good team. They have good players and Jamie Vardy is scoring a lot of goals."

City came back to overhaul Liverpool in last season's title race and Mahrez added: "We know we are capable of doing that again."

Pep Guardiola insists he still has to earn a new contract at Manchester City despite winning five major trophies in the past two seasons. City are keen for Guardiola to commit to a deal beyond the current one that ends in 2021.

Pep Guardiola insists he still has to earn a new contract at Manchester City despite winning five major trophies in the past two seasons. City are keen for Guardiola to commit to a deal beyond the current one that ends in 2021. But, in the midst of a frustrating season that sees City trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by 14 points, the 48-year-old says there is no rush to agree an extension, partly because performance will be a factor in his future. "I have one more year and always I have to deserve to extend my contract," Guardiola told reporters on Friday. "Managers, we have to get results. At this club you have to win. In football, we spoke about this, the situation changed a lot, managers today, even in this country, they change a lot. "In just four or five months, how many managers have been sacked? So that's why we have to be patient and do our job. "We still have a lot of time. So we have patience, we have an incredible relationship with the board, with the people who decide, and we will take the decision that is best for the club. "I think in football one-and-a-half years is a long time for the managers, a lot of time, so we have to see altogether how it works, how it's going on." Guardiola spent four years as Barcelona boss and three years with Bayern Munich before joining City in 2016. He will have been at the Etihad Stadium for five years if he finishes his current City deal. Some pundits believe that will mark the end of his reign, but Guardiola disagrees. 'Perfect for both sides' "I said many times how incredible, what a good time I have here, and I would like to stay as long as possible," Guardiola said. "So that is my desire. But I will only be sure if it's the best for the club that they want me to stay longer. "So it will be five years with one club, in this competition, this league, it has many years, so that's why it's important to be sure the decision is perfect for both sides. "That's why there's no rush, it's not finishing in three or four months. The club is working perfectly in all departments, so it's not a problem, honestly." City face Leicester on Saturday, looking for the win to close the gap on the second-placed visitors to one point. Guardiola will be without his assistant Mikel Arteta following the Spaniard's decision to take charge at Arsenal on Friday. Rodolfo Borrell will step up to be the temporary assistant for Guardiola, although he has also been linked with joining Arteta. "Yes he'll step up. From now on he wants to stay with me. We've not had any approach for him. We'll continue like this until the summer," Guardiola said. City winger Riyad Mahrez will be hoping for a starting spot against former club Leicester and has fond memories of his time with the Foxes after their title triumph in 2016. "My first title with Leicester is one of the medals that means the most to me, as well as the Africa Cup of Nations which was for my country and so there is a lot of emotion," he said. "But with Leicester it was an unbelievable achievement, and no one thought we were going to make it. What we achieved together was unbelievable and so that club means a lot to me. "I am not surprised by them, they are a good team. They have good players and Jamie Vardy is scoring a lot of goals." City came back to overhaul Liverpool in last season's title race and Mahrez added: "We know we are capable of doing that again."

I have to earn new contract: Pep Guardiola

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-denies-presence-of-break-clause-in-contract-with-manchester-city-268224">Guardiola</a>&nbsp;said&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-gabriel-jesus-hat-trick-gives-man-city-4-1-win-at-dinamo-zagreb-267832">City</a>'s League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

"I think it (the&nbsp;decision) is going to happen&nbsp;quick,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument."

Former&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;captain&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;is the leading candidate to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unai-emery-axed-as-arsenal-boss-after-worst-run-in-decades-265245">Unai Emery</a> as&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning.

"Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is.

"He's talking with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all."

Spaniard&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;made 149 appearances for&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to&nbsp;Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles&nbsp;over&nbsp;the last two seasons.

Guardiola&nbsp;said he had spoken to&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mesut-ozil-deceived-by-fake-news-will-be-pleased-to-see-him-go-to-xinjiang-china-268547">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;opportunity and would not stand in his way.

"I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said.

"Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man. "I think it (the decision) is going to happen quick," Guardiola was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument." Former Arsenal captain Arteta is the leading candidate to succeed Unai Emery as Arsenal manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning. "Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow," Guardiola earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is. "He's talking with Arsenal so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all." Spaniard Arteta made 149 appearances for Arsenal before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles over the last two seasons. Guardiola said he had spoken to Arteta about the Arsenal opportunity and would not stand in his way. "I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said. "Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola expects quick decision on Arteta over Arsenal move

Manchester City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-not-on-par-with-european-elite-says-guardiola-267118">Pep Guardiola </a>has denied reports that his contract contains a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season.

The Spaniard signed an extension last year until 2021 but with City's hopes of a third successive Premier League title now looking remote, questions have been raised about his future.

Asked on Friday (December 13) whether he could be released from his contract at the end of the season, Guardiola said: "No it's not true. I already spoke about that, about my intentions with the club."

Guardiola arrived at Manchester City in 2016 and after a trophy-less first season he has delivered two league titles, two League Cups and the FA Cup to the Etihad Stadium.

This season, however, his star has waned with Liverpool's Juergen Klopp taking centre stage with his side eight points clear at the top of the Premier League and 14 ahead of City who have slipped below Leicester City into third place.

Klopp agreed a contract extension until 2024 on Friday.

"I congratulate him and Liverpool, he deserves it," Guardiola told reporters at his news conference ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Arsenal. "I think it's really good for the Premier League he can continue here."

Guardiola's immediate priority will be to get his side back on track against Arsenal, having suffered defeat in last weekend's Manchester derby.

Arsenal, under caretaker boss Freddie Ljungberg, ended a nine-match winless sequence by beating West Ham United in the Premier League on Monday and drew 2-2 with Standard Liege in the Europa League on Thursday.

"We watched the games with (former manager) Unai (Emery) and the games with Ljungberg and try to figure out what they will do against us," Guardiola said.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has denied reports that his contract contains a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. The Spaniard signed an extension last year until 2021 but with City's hopes of a third successive Premier League title now looking remote, questions have been raised about his future.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has denied reports that his contract contains a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. The Spaniard signed an extension last year until 2021 but with City's hopes of a third successive Premier League title now looking remote, questions have been raised about his future. Asked on Friday (December 13) whether he could be released from his contract at the end of the season, Guardiola said: "No it's not true. I already spoke about that, about my intentions with the club." Guardiola arrived at Manchester City in 2016 and after a trophy-less first season he has delivered two league titles, two League Cups and the FA Cup to the Etihad Stadium. This season, however, his star has waned with Liverpool's Juergen Klopp taking centre stage with his side eight points clear at the top of the Premier League and 14 ahead of City who have slipped below Leicester City into third place. Klopp agreed a contract extension until 2024 on Friday. "I congratulate him and Liverpool, he deserves it," Guardiola told reporters at his news conference ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Arsenal. "I think it's really good for the Premier League he can continue here." Guardiola's immediate priority will be to get his side back on track against Arsenal, having suffered defeat in last weekend's Manchester derby. Arsenal, under caretaker boss Freddie Ljungberg, ended a nine-match winless sequence by beating West Ham United in the Premier League on Monday and drew 2-2 with Standard Liege in the Europa League on Thursday. "We watched the games with (former manager) Unai (Emery) and the games with Ljungberg and try to figure out what they will do against us," Guardiola said.

Pep Guardiola denies presence of 'break clause' in contract with Manchester City

Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record breaking group stage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-flex-financial-muscle-to-leave-manchester-united-lagging-behind-266573">Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;</a>striker Gabriel&nbsp;Jesus&nbsp;netted a superb&nbsp;hat-trick&nbsp;as they came from behind to beat Croatian title holders<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/juve-wrap-up-top-spot-with-dinamo-victory-9883">&nbsp;Dinamo&nbsp;Zagreb</a> 4-1 away in an entertaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-masterstroke-pays-off-as-tottenham-spurs-hit-back-to-win-264816">Champions League</a> Group C clash on Wednesday.

City, who had already secured the group's top spot, finished with 14 points from six games, seven ahead of Atalanta who joined them in the last 16 after a 3-0&nbsp;win&nbsp;at Shakhtar Donetsk.

Third-placed Shakhtar, who collected six points, will carry on in the Europa League's last 32 while&nbsp;Dinamo&nbsp;(five points) were eliminated from European competition.

City&nbsp;manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-defends-bernardo-silva-over-tweet-to-mendy-251960">Pep Guardiola</a>, who fielded a strong side despite the match being a dead rubber for the English champions, was pleased after they amassed 501 goals in 199 games under his tenure in all competitions.

"In the first half we struggled a bit, but we played 75 minutes very, very well overall, so a good result," he told BT Sport.

"We'd qualified but we came here for the club, for the prestige, to learn to play in this competition."

Jesus&nbsp;added: "It’s special, when I’m young I think about playing and scoring in the Champions League so it’s very special to score goals and a&nbsp;hat-trick&nbsp;as well."

Aiming to reach the Champions League knockout stages for the first time,&nbsp;Dinamo&nbsp;made a bright start as Spanish forward Dani Olmo fired them into a 10th-minute lead with a sumptuous volley.

Jesus&nbsp;levelled in the 34th after Ilkay Gundogan had gone close amid some sustained pressure from&nbsp;City, rising above two markers to head home a Riyad Mahrez cross from the left.

The Brazilian then produced a jinking run after a one-two with Phil Foden in the 50th minute, weaving his way past several defenders on the left before beating home keeper Dominik Livakovic with a neat finish.

The irrepressible&nbsp;Jesus&nbsp;completed his one-man&nbsp;show four minutes later with a clinical side-footed shot from close range after left-back Benjamin Mendy delivered an inch-perfect cross from the left.

City&nbsp;took their foot off the pedal after&nbsp;Jesus&nbsp;was substituted in the 65th minute but Foden added some gloss to the scoreline in the closing stages as he swept in a fine pass by Bernardo Silva.

Dinamo&nbsp;boss Nenad Bjelica was pleased with his team's effort throughout the group stage.

"I've got a top bunch of lads here and I am proud to be in charge of them," he told a news conference.

"We've restored the fans' faith in&nbsp;Dinamo&nbsp;and they've flocked back to the terraces this season. We played well in the first half against&nbsp;City&nbsp;but their quickfire goals sent us reeling and we were unable to recover."

Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus netted a superb hat-trick as they came from behind to beat Croatian title holders Dinamo Zagreb 4-1 away in an entertaining Champions League Group C clash on Wednesday.

Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus netted a superb hat-trick as they came from behind to beat Croatian title holders Dinamo Zagreb 4-1 away in an entertaining Champions League Group C clash on Wednesday. City, who had already secured the group's top spot, finished with 14 points from six games, seven ahead of Atalanta who joined them in the last 16 after a 3-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk. Third-placed Shakhtar, who collected six points, will carry on in the Europa League's last 32 while Dinamo (five points) were eliminated from European competition. City manager Pep Guardiola, who fielded a strong side despite the match being a dead rubber for the English champions, was pleased after they amassed 501 goals in 199 games under his tenure in all competitions. "In the first half we struggled a bit, but we played 75 minutes very, very well overall, so a good result," he told BT Sport. "We'd qualified but we came here for the club, for the prestige, to learn to play in this competition." Jesus added: "It’s special, when I’m young I think about playing and scoring in the Champions League so it’s very special to score goals and a hat-trick as well." Aiming to reach the Champions League knockout stages for the first time, Dinamo made a bright start as Spanish forward Dani Olmo fired them into a 10th-minute lead with a sumptuous volley. Jesus levelled in the 34th after Ilkay Gundogan had gone close amid some sustained pressure from City, rising above two markers to head home a Riyad Mahrez cross from the left. The Brazilian then produced a jinking run after a one-two with Phil Foden in the 50th minute, weaving his way past several defenders on the left before beating home keeper Dominik Livakovic with a neat finish. The irrepressible Jesus completed his one-man show four minutes later with a clinical side-footed shot from close range after left-back Benjamin Mendy delivered an inch-perfect cross from the left. City took their foot off the pedal after Jesus was substituted in the 65th minute but Foden added some gloss to the scoreline in the closing stages as he swept in a fine pass by Bernardo Silva. Dinamo boss Nenad Bjelica was pleased with his team's effort throughout the group stage. "I've got a top bunch of lads here and I am proud to be in charge of them," he told a news conference. "We've restored the fans' faith in Dinamo and they've flocked back to the terraces this season. We played well in the first half against City but their quickfire goals sent us reeling and we were unable to recover."

Gabriel Jesus hat-trick gives Manchester City 4-1 win at Dinamo Zagreb

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-players-that-led-manchester-city-to-english-premier-league-glory-218210">Manchester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;must accept that they may not be able to compete with the top teams in Europe at the moment, manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-defends-bernardo-silva-over-tweet-to-mendy-251960">Pep Guardiola</a> has said.

City's 2-1 defeat by&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United in the Premier League on Saturday was their fourth of the campaign and left the defending champions third 14 points behind leaders Liverpool.

Guardiola's side was ripped apart by United on the counter-attack and they looked a shadow of the side that won the domestic treble last season.

"That is the level we face, against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">Liverpool</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-ham-extend-away-day-blues-for-pitiful-manchester-united-251268">United</a>,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-lionel-messi-sinks-atletico-as-barcelona-return-to-the-top-265656"> Barcelona</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/6-reasons-for-real-madrid%27s-poor-performance-113364">Madrid</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-inter-milan-return-to-serie-a-duel-as-napoli-try-to-snap-winless-run-265161">Juventus</a> they are the teams we have to face and the reality is maybe we are not able now to compete with them," Guardiola told Sky Sports.

"We have to improve and accept it and move forward. Maybe we need to live that as a club to improve, to accept the reality now and improve."

City's backline has been ravaged by injury, with Guardiola fielding defensive midfielder Fernando in central defence in recent games.

"The reality is we are 14 points behind for the mistakes we have done, for the quality of our opponents and especially, as well, the things we cannot control," he said.

"We are at the beginning of December and we have other competitions to play in and other games to fight and improve on."

City&nbsp;are back in action on Wednesday when they visit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/juve-wrap-up-top-spot-with-dinamo-victory-9883">Dynamo Zagreb</a> in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-masterstroke-pays-off-as-tottenham-spurs-hit-back-to-win-264816">Champions League</a>, where they have already sealed progress to the knockout rounds as Group C winners.

Manchester City must accept that they may not be able to compete with the top teams in Europe at the moment, manager Pep Guardiola has said. City's 2-1 defeat by Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday was their fourth of the campaign and left the defending champions third 14 points behind leaders Liverpool.

Manchester City must accept that they may not be able to compete with the top teams in Europe at the moment, manager Pep Guardiola has said. City's 2-1 defeat by Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday was their fourth of the campaign and left the defending champions third 14 points behind leaders Liverpool. Guardiola's side was ripped apart by United on the counter-attack and they looked a shadow of the side that won the domestic treble last season. "That is the level we face, against Liverpool, United, Barcelona, Madrid, Juventus they are the teams we have to face and the reality is maybe we are not able now to compete with them," Guardiola told Sky Sports. "We have to improve and accept it and move forward. Maybe we need to live that as a club to improve, to accept the reality now and improve." City's backline has been ravaged by injury, with Guardiola fielding defensive midfielder Fernando in central defence in recent games. "The reality is we are 14 points behind for the mistakes we have done, for the quality of our opponents and especially, as well, the things we cannot control," he said. "We are at the beginning of December and we have other competitions to play in and other games to fight and improve on." City are back in action on Wednesday when they visit Dynamo Zagreb in the Champions League, where they have already sealed progress to the knockout rounds as Group C winners.

Football: Manchester City not on par with European elite, says Pep Guardiola

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says smiles are back on the faces of his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-flex-financial-muscle-to-leave-manchester-united-lagging-behind-266573">Manchester United</a> players after their victory against Tottenham as he prepares to take on defending champions Manchester City.

United ruined Jose Mourinho's Old Trafford return on Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-rashford-double-as-united-spoil-mourinhos-return-266316">winning 2-1</a> to end their former manager's perfect start to his reign at Spurs.

They are sixth in the table, still, eight points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, but Solskjaer said the win was a shot in the arm for his team after two disappointing draws.

"Confidence is a strange&nbsp;thing in football," he said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "You can get performances and results like Wednesday night and it boosts it so much.

"And I know our boys will be up for it, energy-wise they should be fine, 24 hours less recovery time shouldn't matter (City played on Tuesday), go on adrenaline. I expect them to have had a good night's sleep and the smiles are back on faces."

The Norwegian described City as "arguably the&nbsp;best team in England" even though they trail <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Premier League leaders</a> Liverpool by 11 points.

"I said it before (Spurs) that this is a chance for everyone. It was doom and gloom, but it's a chance to turn that doubt into belief and, for us, if we can manage to get another performance the confidence, the way we played against Tottenham, if we can do that at the Etihad we can come out of it with a result.

"People say 'why do you not have better results in other games?'. But the Premier League is hard.

"No matter who you play, it's margins, I think it's a compliment to the league. You've got City, Liverpool, Leicester consistent, but the other games are really tight."

One man playing at the top of his game is forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-rashford-double-as-united-spoil-mourinhos-return-266316">Marcus Rashford</a>, who has scored 12 goals in his past 13 games for club and country.

"He's consistently now scoring, but it's not like four in one and two or three without," said Solskjaer.

"It's not just in spurts, but he's consistently getting chances, into better positions, and on Wednesday night he was unbelievable and hope to see that again."

Solskjaer moved to Old Trafford in 1996, just after City had been relegated to the second tier of English football.

And it was not until 2001 that the Norwegian faced them in a 1-1 home draw.

"At least we play every year now," he said about his derby memories. "Took many years before I played a Manchester derby myself, it's changed in a way.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-gives-manchester-city-much-needed-win-at-burnley-266167">Man City</a> are a better team now than when I was playing. Football has changed quite a lot, was allowed a few more proper tackles.

"With every little angle everything is being scrutinised now. It's more of a technical, tactical game than physical or mental. A derby should be played as a derby. We don't play basketball and we're ready if that happens.

"Manchester derbies are always special games, but you can't say it matters more. For the fans, of course. We're up for it."

Paul Pogba will be absent again following his ankle injury but Anthony Martial returns to the squad.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says smiles are back on the faces of his Manchester United players after their victory against Tottenham as he prepares to take on defending champions Manchester City.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says smiles are back on the faces of his Manchester United players after their victory against Tottenham as he prepares to take on defending champions Manchester City. United ruined Jose Mourinho's Old Trafford return on Wednesday, winning 2-1 to end their former manager's perfect start to his reign at Spurs. They are sixth in the table, still, eight points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, but Solskjaer said the win was a shot in the arm for his team after two disappointing draws. "Confidence is a strange thing in football," he said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "You can get performances and results like Wednesday night and it boosts it so much. "And I know our boys will be up for it, energy-wise they should be fine, 24 hours less recovery time shouldn't matter (City played on Tuesday), go on adrenaline. I expect them to have had a good night's sleep and the smiles are back on faces." The Norwegian described City as "arguably the best team in England" even though they trail Premier League leaders Liverpool by 11 points. "I said it before (Spurs) that this is a chance for everyone. It was doom and gloom, but it's a chance to turn that doubt into belief and, for us, if we can manage to get another performance the confidence, the way we played against Tottenham, if we can do that at the Etihad we can come out of it with a result. "People say 'why do you not have better results in other games?'. But the Premier League is hard. "No matter who you play, it's margins, I think it's a compliment to the league. You've got City, Liverpool, Leicester consistent, but the other games are really tight." One man playing at the top of his game is forward Marcus Rashford, who has scored 12 goals in his past 13 games for club and country. "He's consistently now scoring, but it's not like four in one and two or three without," said Solskjaer. "It's not just in spurts, but he's consistently getting chances, into better positions, and on Wednesday night he was unbelievable and hope to see that again." Solskjaer moved to Old Trafford in 1996, just after City had been relegated to the second tier of English football. And it was not until 2001 that the Norwegian faced them in a 1-1 home draw. "At least we play every year now," he said about his derby memories. "Took many years before I played a Manchester derby myself, it's changed in a way. "Man City are a better team now than when I was playing. Football has changed quite a lot, was allowed a few more proper tackles. "With every little angle everything is being scrutinised now. It's more of a technical, tactical game than physical or mental. A derby should be played as a derby. We don't play basketball and we're ready if that happens. "Manchester derbies are always special games, but you can't say it matters more. For the fans, of course. We're up for it." Paul Pogba will be absent again following his ankle injury but Anthony Martial returns to the squad.

Solskjaer says 'smiles back on Manchester United faces' ahead of derby

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-extend-lead-at-top-as-manchester-city-chelsea-falter-265516">Manchester City</a>'s Gabriel Jesus struck twice and Rodri scored a screamer in a 4-1 win at Burnley on Tuesday as the champions showed signs they may be able to keep the Premier League title race alive.

The victory takes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guardiola-rules-out-manchester-city-january-spree-265868">Pep Guardiola</a>'s side, who had drawn at Newcastle United on Saturday, into provisional second spot and back within eight points of leaders Liverpool ahead of the Merseyside derby with Everton at Anfield on Wednesday.

Jesus opened the scoring in the 24th minute and doubled City’s advantage five minutes after the break before a spectacular drive from Rodri and a low drilled shot from substitute Riyad Mahrez made it four.

A late consolation from Burnley substitute Robbie Brady will have annoyed Guardiola, whose side have now gone eight games in all competitions without a clean sheet but, that aside, this was back to business for City.

The Spaniard, though, dismissed talk of a title race comeback.

"For the distance we have with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-draw-everton-in-fa-cup-third-round-265919">Liverpool</a> it would be crazy to think about the title, we have to think about the (weekend Manchester) derby, the other competitions, and take this rhythm," he told the post-match news conference.

The way the City players celebrated the win showed they knew they could ill-afford another slip-up after being held at Newcastle United on Saturday.

In recent weeks City have looked well below the standards set in their two straight title campaigns and this season they had already dropped 13 points in their 14 games, only three short of their total for the whole of the last campaign.

With only one win in their last five games in all competitions, the pressure on City was real but the gap in quality between the elite clubs and the tightly-packed middle ranks of the Premier League was soon evident.

Burnley manager Sean Dyche switched from his usual 4-4-2 to a five-man midfield with Danny Drinkwater, on loan from Chelsea, making his first Premier League appearance in 21 months, but neither he nor his team mates troubled the champions.

City began to move the ball around with the kind of confidence and precision that has been their hallmark under Guardiola and they were soon ahead.

The breakthrough came after a swift exchange of passes ended with David Silva threading the ball to Jesus who, filling in for the injured Sergio Aguero, curled a shot into the far corner.

The lead could have been doubled two minutes before the interval when, after rare Burnley pressure, City broke and the counter ended with a Bernardo Silva drive which keeper Nick Pope saved superbly with his outstretched leg.

The second goal came when Bernardo Silva curled a probing cross towards the back post and Jesus reacted quickly to get in front of his marker Phil Bardsley and volley home.

Jesus, who had not scored in his previous 10 games for club or country, was buzzing and went close to a third with a burst of pace and another shot that fizzed just wide of the far post.

A blocked shot from David Silva then fell to Rodri on the edge of the box and the Spaniard blasted a thundering, unstoppable drive past Pope to make it three in the 68th minute.

Mahrez, given acres of space, got the fourth goal three minutes from the end with a low shot from the edge of the box before Brady gave the muted home crowd some cheer in the cold.

"We played with an incredible amount of passes and we needed that," said Guardiola. "Here at Burnley it is not easy. We conceded one chance in the first half but we played in a clever way and it is a good performance," he added.

Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus struck twice and Rodri scored a screamer in a 4-1 win at Burnley on Tuesday as the champions showed signs they may be able to keep the Premier League title race alive.

Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus struck twice and Rodri scored a screamer in a 4-1 win at Burnley on Tuesday as the champions showed signs they may be able to keep the Premier League title race alive. The victory takes Pep Guardiola's side, who had drawn at Newcastle United on Saturday, into provisional second spot and back within eight points of leaders Liverpool ahead of the Merseyside derby with Everton at Anfield on Wednesday. Jesus opened the scoring in the 24th minute and doubled City’s advantage five minutes after the break before a spectacular drive from Rodri and a low drilled shot from substitute Riyad Mahrez made it four. A late consolation from Burnley substitute Robbie Brady will have annoyed Guardiola, whose side have now gone eight games in all competitions without a clean sheet but, that aside, this was back to business for City. The Spaniard, though, dismissed talk of a title race comeback. "For the distance we have with Liverpool it would be crazy to think about the title, we have to think about the (weekend Manchester) derby, the other competitions, and take this rhythm," he told the post-match news conference. The way the City players celebrated the win showed they knew they could ill-afford another slip-up after being held at Newcastle United on Saturday. In recent weeks City have looked well below the standards set in their two straight title campaigns and this season they had already dropped 13 points in their 14 games, only three short of their total for the whole of the last campaign. With only one win in their last five games in all competitions, the pressure on City was real but the gap in quality between the elite clubs and the tightly-packed middle ranks of the Premier League was soon evident. Burnley manager Sean Dyche switched from his usual 4-4-2 to a five-man midfield with Danny Drinkwater, on loan from Chelsea, making his first Premier League appearance in 21 months, but neither he nor his team mates troubled the champions. City began to move the ball around with the kind of confidence and precision that has been their hallmark under Guardiola and they were soon ahead. The breakthrough came after a swift exchange of passes ended with David Silva threading the ball to Jesus who, filling in for the injured Sergio Aguero, curled a shot into the far corner. The lead could have been doubled two minutes before the interval when, after rare Burnley pressure, City broke and the counter ended with a Bernardo Silva drive which keeper Nick Pope saved superbly with his outstretched leg. The second goal came when Bernardo Silva curled a probing cross towards the back post and Jesus reacted quickly to get in front of his marker Phil Bardsley and volley home. Jesus, who had not scored in his previous 10 games for club or country, was buzzing and went close to a third with a burst of pace and another shot that fizzed just wide of the far post. A blocked shot from David Silva then fell to Rodri on the edge of the box and the Spaniard blasted a thundering, unstoppable drive past Pope to make it three in the 68th minute. Mahrez, given acres of space, got the fourth goal three minutes from the end with a low shot from the edge of the box before Brady gave the muted home crowd some cheer in the cold. "We played with an incredible amount of passes and we needed that," said Guardiola. "Here at Burnley it is not easy. We conceded one chance in the first half but we played in a clever way and it is a good performance," he added.

Premier League: Jesus double gives Manchester City much-needed win at Burnley

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the-world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola</a> says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-extend-lead-at-top-as-manchester-city-chelsea-falter-265516">Premier League</a> title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool.

The champions, in third place and trailing Jurgen Klopp's men by 11 points after 14 matches, visit Burnley on Tuesday.

City have gone seven games without a clean sheet, which Guardiola said was not "good enough" and the club have been linked with Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu.

But he played down the idea of buying a centre-back when the transfer window re-opens next month.

Instead he will keep his faith in Fernandinho and await the return of Aymeric Laporte after a lengthy absence with a knee injury.

Asked if City's transfer strategy had changed, Guardiola said: "No. I don't want any players in January.

"If we cannot do it in summer, we cannot do in January. When they come for an incredible opportunity in January for the next four, five, six years, maybe we could think about it, but that is not possible.

"Normally the players we could think it would be interesting to add something for our squad, they are not going to sell."

Since losing Laporte in August, and following the exit of captain Vincent Kompany, Guardiola has deployed Fernandinho, usually a holding midfielder, in defence.

And he will turn to the Brazilian again at Turf Moor despite the direct approach of the hosts and aerial and physical threat of Burnley forward pair Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood.

"Fernandinho is not the reason why we win or lose. When we beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-thwarted-by-valencia-in-champions-league-thriller-264990">Chelsea</a>, everyone said how fantastic Fernandinho was," said Guardiola.

"When we don't win it's because of Fernandinho. It will be my decision. I like him in that position because of the build-up for the fast, for the long balls, many things."

City will be without the suspended Ilkay Gundogan in midfield and striker Sergio Aguero, the matchwinner at Burnley last season, with a thigh injury that will also rule him out of Saturday's Manchester derby.

City have won just one of their past five games in all competitions but England defender John Stones believes leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-and-napoli-left-with-work-to-do-after-anfield-draw-264987">Liverpool</a> will now face added pressure to stay at the top.

"It's very difficult to be out in front and you can sometimes be complacent and not do things you should do. That's when you can slip up," he said.

"We put a healthy pressure on our shoulders to say we can achieve this, and we can claw back points and close the gap. We're still the champions and we should have that healthy arrogance about it."

Pep Guardiola says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging Premier League title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool.

Pep Guardiola says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging Premier League title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool. The champions, in third place and trailing Jurgen Klopp's men by 11 points after 14 matches, visit Burnley on Tuesday. City have gone seven games without a clean sheet, which Guardiola said was not "good enough" and the club have been linked with Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu. But he played down the idea of buying a centre-back when the transfer window re-opens next month. Instead he will keep his faith in Fernandinho and await the return of Aymeric Laporte after a lengthy absence with a knee injury. Asked if City's transfer strategy had changed, Guardiola said: "No. I don't want any players in January. "If we cannot do it in summer, we cannot do in January. When they come for an incredible opportunity in January for the next four, five, six years, maybe we could think about it, but that is not possible. "Normally the players we could think it would be interesting to add something for our squad, they are not going to sell." Since losing Laporte in August, and following the exit of captain Vincent Kompany, Guardiola has deployed Fernandinho, usually a holding midfielder, in defence. And he will turn to the Brazilian again at Turf Moor despite the direct approach of the hosts and aerial and physical threat of Burnley forward pair Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood. "Fernandinho is not the reason why we win or lose. When we beat Chelsea, everyone said how fantastic Fernandinho was," said Guardiola. "When we don't win it's because of Fernandinho. It will be my decision. I like him in that position because of the build-up for the fast, for the long balls, many things." City will be without the suspended Ilkay Gundogan in midfield and striker Sergio Aguero, the matchwinner at Burnley last season, with a thigh injury that will also rule him out of Saturday's Manchester derby. City have won just one of their past five games in all competitions but England defender John Stones believes leaders Liverpool will now face added pressure to stay at the top. "It's very difficult to be out in front and you can sometimes be complacent and not do things you should do. That's when you can slip up," he said. "We put a healthy pressure on our shoulders to say we can achieve this, and we can claw back points and close the gap. We're still the champions and we should have that healthy arrogance about it."

Guardiola rules out Manchester City January spree

Liverpool coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../uefa-champions-league-jurgen-klopp-confident -of-mohamed-salah-fitness-ahead-of-clash-against-napoli-264732">Jurgen Klopp</a> and Manchester City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the- world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola</a> have been inducted into League Manager Association's (LMA) Hall of Fame.

Both have been inducted into the hall of fame, in recognition of their achievements in football management to date.

Guardiola and Klopp were honoured at a special LMA Dinner on Thursday (local time).

England coach and LMA President, Gareth Southgate, and LMA Board and Hall of Fame Member, Sir Alex Ferguson, presented Klopp and Guardiola with a hand-crafted silver salver as a mark of recognition.

The duo now follows the likes of Brian Clough, Sir Bobby Robson and Arsene Wenger in the LMA Hall of Fame.

"What a privilege. When you come down the corridor and see all the big names, big managers, big personalities being here that would have helped to make football better, football that we have right now," Goal.com quoted Guardiola as saying.

"I think all the managers here that have been inducted into the Hall of Fame is because we were in incredible clubs with incredible players," he added.

Both Liverpool and Manchester City have been battling it out to win the Premier League this season.

Currently, Liverpool is on the top position in the standings and have a nine-point lead over the defending champions City.

"It is big, it is really big. When I first heard about it I couldn't believe it. I have now been in England for a bit longer than four years and I have enjoyed each second, to be honest," Klopp said.

"I saw all the names with the pictures when I came in, it's really impressive. I don't often feel pride but, at this moment, I'm very proud because this is something really, really special," he added.

Liverpool will next take on Brighton in the Premier League while City will clash against Newcastle United.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola have been inducted into League Manager Association's (LMA) Hall of Fame. Both have been inducted into the hall of fame, in recognition of their achievements in football management to date.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola have been inducted into League Manager Association's (LMA) Hall of Fame. Both have been inducted into the hall of fame, in recognition of their achievements in football management to date. Guardiola and Klopp were honoured at a special LMA Dinner on Thursday (local time). England coach and LMA President, Gareth Southgate, and LMA Board and Hall of Fame Member, Sir Alex Ferguson, presented Klopp and Guardiola with a hand-crafted silver salver as a mark of recognition. The duo now follows the likes of Brian Clough, Sir Bobby Robson and Arsene Wenger in the LMA Hall of Fame. "What a privilege. When you come down the corridor and see all the big names, big managers, big personalities being here that would have helped to make football better, football that we have right now," Goal.com quoted Guardiola as saying. "I think all the managers here that have been inducted into the Hall of Fame is because we were in incredible clubs with incredible players," he added. Both Liverpool and Manchester City have been battling it out to win the Premier League this season. Currently, Liverpool is on the top position in the standings and have a nine-point lead over the defending champions City. "It is big, it is really big. When I first heard about it I couldn't believe it. I have now been in England for a bit longer than four years and I have enjoyed each second, to be honest," Klopp said. "I saw all the names with the pictures when I came in, it's really impressive. I don't often feel pride but, at this moment, I'm very proud because this is something really, really special," he added. Liverpool will next take on Brighton in the Premier League while City will clash against Newcastle United.

Pep Gaurdiola and Jurgen Klopp inducted into League Manager Association Hall of Fame

A subdued <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-owner-to-sell-500-million-stake-valuing-itself-at-48-billion-financial-times-264809">Manchester City</a> reached the Champions League's last 16 and secured top spot in their group despite an unconvincing 1-1 draw at home to Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

Ilkay Gundogan had fired City ahead in the 56th minute but Shakhtar earned a potentially valuable point after Israeli substitute Manor Solomon equalised in the 69th.

Atalanta's 2-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb in Group C's other game meant that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the-world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola</a>'s side are guaranteed to finish top.

City have 11 points at the summit ahead of their final group game away to Dinamo with Shakhtar in second place on six points. Dinamo have five points and Atalanta four.

Yet while the goal of qualification was secured, it was a far from impressive performance from a team which harbours ambitions of a first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-stars-as-psg-snatch-draw-against-real-madrid-264752">Champions League</a> triumph this season.

In recent weeks the crispness and sharpness of City's pass-and-move play has not been up to its established standard and their defending remains a concern.

At a subdued Etihad, City survived a scare in the 15th minute when their Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson raced out of his area and completely missed the ball as he attempted to clear.

That allowed Tete to break towards the unguarded goal, but Fernandinho did superbly to cover the near post and block his compatriot's shot.

Moments later, Ederson raced outside his box again but this time his intervention was well-timed and clean, as he slid to clear the danger with Tete threatening once more.

After a mostly uneventful remainder of the first half, City got themselves in front when Gabriel Jesus twisted and turned in the box before poking the ball to Gundogan who slotted home.

Yet Shakhtar drew level with a perfectly-constructed break that ended with Israeli substitute Manor Solomon drilling past Ederson after an excellent pull-back from Dodo.

"The target was to qualify and we have done it," said Guardiola who was facing Shakhtar for the 13th time in his career.

"They always have quality players. In general, we created chances but the draw was enough in the end. Now we have one competition already done, and now our focus will be the Premier League," he said. City are third in the domestic league and trail leaders Liverpool by nine points.

For Shakhtar everything is still to play for in their final match, at home to Atalanta on December&nbsp;11, with all three teams in the group still having a chance to join City in the knockout stage.

The result was particularly impressive for Shakhtar given they were without two key players in Taison and Marlos.

"To get a draw at City is fantastic," said Shakhtar's Portuguese coach Luis Castro.

"We have a family atmosphere in our team and we all get on with each other. We’ve nothing won but we’ve nothing lost yet either."

A subdued Manchester City reached the Champions League's last 16 and secured top spot in their group despite an unconvincing 1-1 draw at home to Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

A subdued Manchester City reached the Champions League's last 16 and secured top spot in their group despite an unconvincing 1-1 draw at home to Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. Ilkay Gundogan had fired City ahead in the 56th minute but Shakhtar earned a potentially valuable point after Israeli substitute Manor Solomon equalised in the 69th. Atalanta's 2-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb in Group C's other game meant that Pep Guardiola's side are guaranteed to finish top. City have 11 points at the summit ahead of their final group game away to Dinamo with Shakhtar in second place on six points. Dinamo have five points and Atalanta four. Yet while the goal of qualification was secured, it was a far from impressive performance from a team which harbours ambitions of a first Champions League triumph this season. In recent weeks the crispness and sharpness of City's pass-and-move play has not been up to its established standard and their defending remains a concern. At a subdued Etihad, City survived a scare in the 15th minute when their Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson raced out of his area and completely missed the ball as he attempted to clear. That allowed Tete to break towards the unguarded goal, but Fernandinho did superbly to cover the near post and block his compatriot's shot. Moments later, Ederson raced outside his box again but this time his intervention was well-timed and clean, as he slid to clear the danger with Tete threatening once more. After a mostly uneventful remainder of the first half, City got themselves in front when Gabriel Jesus twisted and turned in the box before poking the ball to Gundogan who slotted home. Yet Shakhtar drew level with a perfectly-constructed break that ended with Israeli substitute Manor Solomon drilling past Ederson after an excellent pull-back from Dodo. "The target was to qualify and we have done it," said Guardiola who was facing Shakhtar for the 13th time in his career. "They always have quality players. In general, we created chances but the draw was enough in the end. Now we have one competition already done, and now our focus will be the Premier League," he said. City are third in the domestic league and trail leaders Liverpool by nine points. For Shakhtar everything is still to play for in their final match, at home to Atalanta on December 11, with all three teams in the group still having a chance to join City in the knockout stage. The result was particularly impressive for Shakhtar given they were without two key players in Taison and Marlos. "To get a draw at City is fantastic," said Shakhtar's Portuguese coach Luis Castro. "We have a family atmosphere in our team and we all get on with each other. We’ve nothing won but we’ve nothing lost yet either."

Champions League: Manchester City secure top 16 berth despite draw with Shakhtar Donetsk

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">3-1 victory </a>over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday.

Goals by Fabinho, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane put Liverpool three goals up before Bernardo Silva's 78th-minute effort provoked a late City siege.

"You saw in the last 10 or 15 minutes when City scored the goal it gave them mental belief and from that moment they controlled the game," Klopp, whose side have an eight-point lead over Leicester City and Chelsea, said.

"But the other 70 minutes we controlled the game with our intensity and didn't let them do what they wanted. If that was so easy a lot more teams would try it, but the boys put in an incredible shift again."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpools-klopp-unsure-how-he-will-approach-two-games-in-24-hours-260260">Klopp</a>, whose side are now unbeaten in 29 Premier League games, said all three goals were "incredible".

"That's what you need on a day like this. You have to score special goals against them, and you have to defend with your heads which is what we did," he said.

"I don't know many ways to beat City but if we want to do it we have to do it with intensity and with forcing them into our game and that's what the boys did today."

Klopp said he could understand opposite number Pep Guardiola's frustration with the opening goal when Fabinho lashed home on the counter-attack after Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to have handled in his own area.

"I didn't see it," he said. "People told me it hit Bernardo Silva's hand then Trent's. If Bernardo had scored with his hand it would have been disallowed, wherever the hand was.

"I understand how disappointed they are, we would feel exactly the same, 100 per cent. But on the other hand the reaction we showed seconds later in front of their box."

While admitting Liverpool were now in new territory with such a lead, Klopp said they might need every point.

"Each point we have we need to go through the most intense period ever," he said.

Alexander-Arnold described the win as a "massive three points" while fellow full back Andy Robertson said the opening goal had been crucial to the outcome.

"We didn't start the best. I think they had two corners inside the first minute so it was always going to be an important factor," he said.

"Now it's all about keeping it in perspective. We'll see where we are after Christmas and the busy period coming up."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a 3-1 victory over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a 3-1 victory over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday. Goals by Fabinho, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane put Liverpool three goals up before Bernardo Silva's 78th-minute effort provoked a late City siege. "You saw in the last 10 or 15 minutes when City scored the goal it gave them mental belief and from that moment they controlled the game," Klopp, whose side have an eight-point lead over Leicester City and Chelsea, said. "But the other 70 minutes we controlled the game with our intensity and didn't let them do what they wanted. If that was so easy a lot more teams would try it, but the boys put in an incredible shift again." Klopp, whose side are now unbeaten in 29 Premier League games, said all three goals were "incredible". "That's what you need on a day like this. You have to score special goals against them, and you have to defend with your heads which is what we did," he said. "I don't know many ways to beat City but if we want to do it we have to do it with intensity and with forcing them into our game and that's what the boys did today." Klopp said he could understand opposite number Pep Guardiola's frustration with the opening goal when Fabinho lashed home on the counter-attack after Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to have handled in his own area. "I didn't see it," he said. "People told me it hit Bernardo Silva's hand then Trent's. If Bernardo had scored with his hand it would have been disallowed, wherever the hand was. "I understand how disappointed they are, we would feel exactly the same, 100 per cent. But on the other hand the reaction we showed seconds later in front of their box." While admitting Liverpool were now in new territory with such a lead, Klopp said they might need every point. "Each point we have we need to go through the most intense period ever," he said. Alexander-Arnold described the win as a "massive three points" while fellow full back Andy Robertson said the opening goal had been crucial to the outcome. "We didn't start the best. I think they had two corners inside the first minute so it was always going to be an important factor," he said. "Now it's all about keeping it in perspective. We'll see where we are after Christmas and the busy period coming up."

Klopp praises Liverpool intensity after crucial win over City

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">Liverpool's 3-1 win </a>over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football.

It was not so much the maths, though Liverpool's nine-point advantage over defending champions City, with a point less over Leicester City and Chelsea, is a significant gap, especially as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpools-klopp-unsure-how-he-will-approach-two-games-in-24-hours-260260"> Juergen Klopp's</a> side have lost one league game in 18 months.

But it was the manner of Liverpool's victory at Anfield which suggested that the fans' nearly 30-year wait for a domestic league title may be coming to a close.

City were by no means poor, and played their part in an entertaining encounter, but Liverpool were better in every department.

Klopp's side were sharper in attack, where Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane both found the target, more solid at the back and in the midfield were faster, stronger, harder and more incisive, as always helped by their rampaging full-backs.

Liverpool are European champions after overpowering teams of the calibre of Barcelona, bullying them physically, ripping them apart with speedy bursts down the flanks from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson and through ruthless finishing.

City, though, have won the past two Premier League titles thanks to their technical brilliance and mastery of possession football which they executed with relentless consistency.

However, this season Liverpool have matched that level of consistency, unbeaten and with 11 wins from 12, they arrived at this game with the only question being whether they could cope with the unique challenge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the-world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola's</a> City machine.

The only conclusion after 90 minutes of high quality football was that Liverpool have no weak spots. It is hard to think of any team in the world who would enter the intimidating atmosphere of Anfield confident of leaving with a win.

City, in contrast, have had a major weakness exposed due to injuries and made an unfathomable mistake in the transfer market by not replacing former captain Vincent Kompany when he left the club in the close-season and that has come back to bite them.

City inexplicably given their huge resources, went into this season with just three established central defenders -- John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte.

Given that Laporte has been sidelined by injury since August and Otamendi's form has been haphazard at best, City went to Anfield with midfielder Fernandinho filling in alongside Stones.

Liverpool in contrast were able to replace Virgil van Dijk's injured defensive partner Joel Matip with the experienced Croatian Dejan Lovren and still had England international Joe Gomez in reserve on the bench.

There was no glaring error from City's defenders but there was an air of vulnerability about them throughout the game and the sense of certainty that Liverpool would punish Guardiola's back line for any slip-up.

Last season, City delivered a tactically mature and disciplined performance in a goalless draw at Anfield but, as Guardiola conceded, this game was more similar to the 2018 Champions League quarter-final, where City were blown apart after going two goals down in the opening 20 minutes.

“If you give them an inch, they will take that and score goals," said City's Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva, who grabbed their late consolation goal.

"That’s what happens. You can play better than Liverpool and be 2-0 or 3-0 behind. They are maybe the best team in the world with their counter-attack, second balls and set pieces."

City will recover from this loss, surely will strengthen their defence in the January transfer window and it would be a foolish pundit who writes them off.

"It’s still November and we still have games to play. We’re not in an ideal position – we don’t want to lose games – and we have to improve," said Silva. “We were in this position last season. We’ll never give up."

Liverpool's protestations that this game decided nothing were inevitable but there was no hiding the desire Klopp has to deliver that long absent league title.

"Nine points, you cannot imagine that something like this happens," said the German. "But it's not important because who wants to be first in early November? We want to be first in May."

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but Liverpool's 3-1 win over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football.

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but Liverpool's 3-1 win over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football. It was not so much the maths, though Liverpool's nine-point advantage over defending champions City, with a point less over Leicester City and Chelsea, is a significant gap, especially as Juergen Klopp's side have lost one league game in 18 months. But it was the manner of Liverpool's victory at Anfield which suggested that the fans' nearly 30-year wait for a domestic league title may be coming to a close. City were by no means poor, and played their part in an entertaining encounter, but Liverpool were better in every department. Klopp's side were sharper in attack, where Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane both found the target, more solid at the back and in the midfield were faster, stronger, harder and more incisive, as always helped by their rampaging full-backs. Liverpool are European champions after overpowering teams of the calibre of Barcelona, bullying them physically, ripping them apart with speedy bursts down the flanks from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson and through ruthless finishing. City, though, have won the past two Premier League titles thanks to their technical brilliance and mastery of possession football which they executed with relentless consistency. However, this season Liverpool have matched that level of consistency, unbeaten and with 11 wins from 12, they arrived at this game with the only question being whether they could cope with the unique challenge of Pep Guardiola's City machine. The only conclusion after 90 minutes of high quality football was that Liverpool have no weak spots. It is hard to think of any team in the world who would enter the intimidating atmosphere of Anfield confident of leaving with a win. City, in contrast, have had a major weakness exposed due to injuries and made an unfathomable mistake in the transfer market by not replacing former captain Vincent Kompany when he left the club in the close-season and that has come back to bite them. City inexplicably given their huge resources, went into this season with just three established central defenders -- John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte. Given that Laporte has been sidelined by injury since August and Otamendi's form has been haphazard at best, City went to Anfield with midfielder Fernandinho filling in alongside Stones. Liverpool in contrast were able to replace Virgil van Dijk's injured defensive partner Joel Matip with the experienced Croatian Dejan Lovren and still had England international Joe Gomez in reserve on the bench. There was no glaring error from City's defenders but there was an air of vulnerability about them throughout the game and the sense of certainty that Liverpool would punish Guardiola's back line for any slip-up. Last season, City delivered a tactically mature and disciplined performance in a goalless draw at Anfield but, as Guardiola conceded, this game was more similar to the 2018 Champions League quarter-final, where City were blown apart after going two goals down in the opening 20 minutes. “If you give them an inch, they will take that and score goals," said City's Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva, who grabbed their late consolation goal. "That’s what happens. You can play better than Liverpool and be 2-0 or 3-0 behind. They are maybe the best team in the world with their counter-attack, second balls and set pieces." City will recover from this loss, surely will strengthen their defence in the January transfer window and it would be a foolish pundit who writes them off. "It’s still November and we still have games to play. We’re not in an ideal position – we don’t want to lose games – and we have to improve," said Silva. “We were in this position last season. We’ll never give up." Liverpool's protestations that this game decided nothing were inevitable but there was no hiding the desire Klopp has to deliver that long absent league title. "Nine points, you cannot imagine that something like this happens," said the German. "But it's not important because who wants to be first in early November? We want to be first in May."

Premier League: Liverpool win over City suggests long wait may come to an end

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">3-1 loss</a> at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said.

Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball inside his own box in the sixth minute but instead of a City penalty the hosts broke and 22 seconds later Fabinho drilled in a spectacular goal from outside the box.

The goal was checked by VAR and allowed to stand as Liverpool went on to clinch the victory and move nine points clear of City in the Premier League title race.

"We saw the incident again in the dressing room afterwards and for me, obviously, it's a penalty - but if you ask a Liverpool player they would say, 'You can give it but it's maybe a 50-50 situation,'" Gundogan told reporters.

"It takes a tough mentality to fight against that and unfortunately they scored the second straight after."

City are aiming to become the first team since Manchester United in 2009 to win three consecutive Premier League titles but now occupy fourth spot in the table.

Last season, City recovered in the second half of the campaign to erase Liverpool's 10-point lead at the top and Gundogan wants the same level of commitment from his team mates.

"We have to accept it, but there is a long way to go. Last season in January we were quite far behind and able to turn it around," Gundogan added.

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a 3-1 loss at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said.

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a 3-1 loss at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said. Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball inside his own box in the sixth minute but instead of a City penalty the hosts broke and 22 seconds later Fabinho drilled in a spectacular goal from outside the box. The goal was checked by VAR and allowed to stand as Liverpool went on to clinch the victory and move nine points clear of City in the Premier League title race. "We saw the incident again in the dressing room afterwards and for me, obviously, it's a penalty - but if you ask a Liverpool player they would say, 'You can give it but it's maybe a 50-50 situation,'" Gundogan told reporters. "It takes a tough mentality to fight against that and unfortunately they scored the second straight after." City are aiming to become the first team since Manchester United in 2009 to win three consecutive Premier League titles but now occupy fourth spot in the table. Last season, City recovered in the second half of the campaign to erase Liverpool's 10-point lead at the top and Gundogan wants the same level of commitment from his team mates. "We have to accept it, but there is a long way to go. Last season in January we were quite far behind and able to turn it around," Gundogan added.

Manchester City players fuming at Liverpool opener: Gundogan

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-sense-chance-to-leave-city-in-their-wake-260408">top-of-the-table clash</a> at Anfield.

Leaders Liverpool have a six-point advantage over the defending champions and the match is a crucial one for both sides.

The build-up has been coloured by Guardiola saying Liverpool's Sadio Mane sometimes dived and then backtracking.

Klopp, who has taken a dig at City's "tactical fouling", drew a line under the verbal sparring on Thursday in an interview with Sky Sports television.

"We constantly get asked questions and sometimes we say what is in that second in our mind without thinking about anything else, that we are in public, that there is a camera," said the German.

"I couldn’t have more respect for Pep Guardiola, that’s how it is. I’ve known him for so long, for me still it’s a big thing to be his contender.

"For me he's the best manager in the world and we have the chance to win against his team which is very difficult but possible. That's enough for me."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-refuses-to-be-distracted-by-manchester-city-as-liverpool-welcome-genk-260004">Klopp</a> dismissed a suggestion that the match was as much one Liverpool could not afford to lose as must win.

"For me, it's a 100 per cent&nbsp;want-to-win game,100 per cent&nbsp;with all I have," he said. "We want to win and we try everything to make that happen, which is difficult enough. And then after that we will see how the situation is and use that situation.

"But it's a big one, we know that. The whole world will be watching that game, I would 100 per cent, everybody I know will, so it's a massive one."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> winners Liverpool lost at Manchester City last season after a goalless draw at Anfield and were beaten to the title by a single point.

"Last year's performance of City at Liverpool was probably the biggest show of respect I ever got, that one of my teams ever got, because they played different to what they usually do," said Klopp.

"I expect a tight game. How exactly it will be, I don't know."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's top-of-the-table clash at Anfield.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's top-of-the-table clash at Anfield. Leaders Liverpool have a six-point advantage over the defending champions and the match is a crucial one for both sides. The build-up has been coloured by Guardiola saying Liverpool's Sadio Mane sometimes dived and then backtracking. Klopp, who has taken a dig at City's "tactical fouling", drew a line under the verbal sparring on Thursday in an interview with Sky Sports television. "We constantly get asked questions and sometimes we say what is in that second in our mind without thinking about anything else, that we are in public, that there is a camera," said the German. "I couldn’t have more respect for Pep Guardiola, that’s how it is. I’ve known him for so long, for me still it’s a big thing to be his contender. "For me he's the best manager in the world and we have the chance to win against his team which is very difficult but possible. That's enough for me." Klopp dismissed a suggestion that the match was as much one Liverpool could not afford to lose as must win. "For me, it's a 100 per cent want-to-win game,100 per cent with all I have," he said. "We want to win and we try everything to make that happen, which is difficult enough. And then after that we will see how the situation is and use that situation. "But it's a big one, we know that. The whole world will be watching that game, I would 100 per cent, everybody I know will, so it's a massive one." Champions League winners Liverpool lost at Manchester City last season after a goalless draw at Anfield and were beaten to the title by a single point. "Last year's performance of City at Liverpool was probably the biggest show of respect I ever got, that one of my teams ever got, because they played different to what they usually do," said Klopp. "I expect a tight game. How exactly it will be, I don't know."

Football: Guardiola is the best manager in the world, says Juergen Klopp

Manchester City were made to wait to book a place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-oxlade-chamberlain-strike-gives-liverpool-win-over-genk-260251">Champions League</a> knockout stages and ended up clinging on for a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Wednesday after a red card forced Kyle Walker to go in goal.

City had taken an early lead through Raheem Sterling but Mario Pasalic’s equaliser turned the tables and substitute keeper Claudio Bravo's sending off late on left the visitors holding on for a point with defender Walker in goal.

Sterling finished off a flowing City move early on before Gabriel Jesus squandered a golden chance to double their lead by rolling a tame penalty wide on the brink of halftime.

Pep Guardiola’s side were made to pay for their profligacy when Pasalic’s bullet header levelled the scores early in the second half and the City manager was left frustrated by his side’s performance after the interval.

"In this competition you know you have your chances and moments and you have to take it," he said.

"But with the problems we have, we made a good first half. First half we were outstanding and second we suffered. In the last 15 minutes we had the issue with the new keeper.”

When asked whether the injury that forced first-choice keeper Ederson off for Bravo at halftime is serious enough to rule him out of contention for Sunday’s Premier League showdown with league leaders Liverpool, the Spaniard replied: “I don’t know right now.”

City remain top of Group C with 10 points, five ahead of Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb, while the draw earned Atalanta their first point in the competition.

“We still have a chance in the Champions League, but I would be very happy with a place in the Europa League too, as long as we continue some European experiences and can grow,” Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-fa-overturn-spurs-striker-sons-red-card-for-tackle-on-evertons-gomes-260237">Premier League</a> champions took the lead with a sensational goal after seven minutes as Bernardo Silva’s pass was back-heeled by Gabriel Jesus into the path of Sterling to finish.

City dominated possession and carved out several promising openings throughout the first half but were given a gilt-edged chance to double their lead just before the break when they earned a penalty for handball following a VAR review.

Jesus stepped up to take the spot kick, but sent it harmlessly wide to leave the Italian side with a glimmer of hope as they headed into the changing rooms.

Gasperini’s side were transformed after the interval and took four minutes to draw level as the unmarked Pasalic powered home a Papu Gomez cross.

There was drama late on when Bravo, who had been introduced at halftime with Ederson carrying a knock, was shown a straight red for a sliding tackle on Josip Ilicic outside the box, forcing Guardiola to send on Walker as a goalkeeper for the final few minutes.

Manchester City were made to wait to book a place in the Champions League knockout stages and ended up clinging on for a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Wednesday after a red card forced Kyle Walker to go in goal.

Manchester City were made to wait to book a place in the Champions League knockout stages and ended up clinging on for a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Wednesday after a red card forced Kyle Walker to go in goal. City had taken an early lead through Raheem Sterling but Mario Pasalic’s equaliser turned the tables and substitute keeper Claudio Bravo's sending off late on left the visitors holding on for a point with defender Walker in goal. Sterling finished off a flowing City move early on before Gabriel Jesus squandered a golden chance to double their lead by rolling a tame penalty wide on the brink of halftime. Pep Guardiola’s side were made to pay for their profligacy when Pasalic’s bullet header levelled the scores early in the second half and the City manager was left frustrated by his side’s performance after the interval. "In this competition you know you have your chances and moments and you have to take it," he said. "But with the problems we have, we made a good first half. First half we were outstanding and second we suffered. In the last 15 minutes we had the issue with the new keeper.” When asked whether the injury that forced first-choice keeper Ederson off for Bravo at halftime is serious enough to rule him out of contention for Sunday’s Premier League showdown with league leaders Liverpool, the Spaniard replied: “I don’t know right now.” City remain top of Group C with 10 points, five ahead of Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb, while the draw earned Atalanta their first point in the competition. “We still have a chance in the Champions League, but I would be very happy with a place in the Europa League too, as long as we continue some European experiences and can grow,” Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini said. The Premier League champions took the lead with a sensational goal after seven minutes as Bernardo Silva’s pass was back-heeled by Gabriel Jesus into the path of Sterling to finish. City dominated possession and carved out several promising openings throughout the first half but were given a gilt-edged chance to double their lead just before the break when they earned a penalty for handball following a VAR review. Jesus stepped up to take the spot kick, but sent it harmlessly wide to leave the Italian side with a glimmer of hope as they headed into the changing rooms. Gasperini’s side were transformed after the interval and took four minutes to draw level as the unmarked Pasalic powered home a Papu Gomez cross. There was drama late on when Bravo, who had been introduced at halftime with Ederson carrying a knock, was shown a straight red for a sliding tackle on Josip Ilicic outside the box, forcing Guardiola to send on Walker as a goalkeeper for the final few minutes.

Champions League: Atalanta fight back to draw with Manchester City

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