After Saturday’s 2-0 win over Sheffield United, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said “Liverpool are better” in the Premier League title race.
City won their 19th game of the season, beating 19th-placed Sheffield United with relative ease.
Although it was short-lived, it gave a better picture of the state of the Premier League. This meant that the top four teams were all halfway through the season. Liverpool is the leader with 42 points from 19 matches. Aston Villa moved up to second with a 3-2 win over Burnley, while City beat Sheffield United despite playing their 20th game of the season.
City and Arsenal are level on 40 points after 19 games, with Guardiola’s men currently third on goal difference. The changes take place on Monday night, with Arsenal taking on Fulham on Sunday and the Reds taking on Newcastle United on New Year’s Eve. ‘that day.
The reason for the irregular schedule is that City did not participate in the Club World Cup earlier this month. When asked for his best prediction of the title race, the City manager was blunt. “It is very difficult. We are not at the top of the league. Liverpool is better,” Guardiola said on Match of the Day.
However, he hopes his team can repeat last year’s feat and mount a strong charge towards the title. “We had injuries and some problems. We won a title, an important title. Our level is very good, I would say that.” Guardiola added: “Now rest. We all need it. “January is less busy than November and December, so we’re preparing for the future,” he said.
This time last season, Arsenal were eight points ahead of their rivals at one stage and Guardiola’s efforts here have been nothing short of impressive. This is the city in April, before its late revival. Liverpool suffered a similar fate in 2018/19 when they were seven points clear at the start of January.
