Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says his side are in the title race, but are wary of rivals around them if they slip up.
Guardiola’s men cruised to a 3-1 victory over Burnley thanks to goals from Julian Alvarez and Rodri, with the Citizens buoyed by the return of star striker Erling Haaland from injury.
Kevin de Bruyne also picked up an assist on his first Premier League start since the opening day of the season against the same opponents.
With important players returning from injury and title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool also winning, Guardiola is wary that his side cannot afford any slip-ups if they are to defend their Premier League title for a record fourth consecutive season:
“We are there. The important thing is that we are still there and that is really, really nice after what we have come from this season.
“We know if we drop points, with the quality of Arsenal and Liverpool, we are in trouble. I don’t have the feeling they are going to drop many points.
“That’s why we have to win as many games as possible. Then, in the end, we will see what happens.
“We have to be ready and the players know it. We push each other every time. I would say the right mentality is there. I don’t have any doubts about that. I think we are going to try.”
The return of Haaland will be a big boost for City, who have been without their top scoring Norwegian for the past two months.
Argentine Julian Alvarez has filled the void left by Haaland extremely well, with the young forward rewarded with a brace on his 24th birthday.
Guardiola was full of praise for his World Cup winner, admitting his form is causing plenty of selection headaches.
“I saw him [Haaland] sharp. He didn’t have three or four clear chances but I had the feeling he was there.
“I’ve been feeling good the last two months without him, but with him, we are a better team. We are really pleased that he is back.
“They can play together. Julian is an exceptional player. It’s more of a headache for me in terms of selection but it’s good that they are competing.
“Julian, for his age, for his numbers in the Premier League, for his involvement, what he gives to the team, it’s unbelievable.”
