Pep Guardiola remains confident that Manchester City are still in the Premier League title race despite suffering a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park. The reigning champions now trail leaders Arsenal by six points after nine matches, but Guardiola believes it’s too early to panic.
The City boss stressed that his team’s focus is on continuous improvement rather than obsessing over the standings. “We have to try to close the gap. Arsenal have been solid for many years, but the main thing is to keep improving and getting better,” Guardiola said. “The season is so long, and there are many teams in the fight. What matters is to stay stable and play our game.”
Guardiola praised his side’s performance despite the loss, describing it as one filled with courage and creativity. He also highlighted the strength of Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, who secured their third consecutive home win against City. “Villa are a top team, a Champions League-level side, and they competed very well,” he said.
Erling Haaland, who has been in prolific form this season with 11 league goals, failed to find the net for the first time in 13 matches. The Norwegian forward hit the post late on but was flagged offside. Guardiola confirmed that Haaland’s knock was not serious, saying, “Hopefully he’s fine.”
City’s attention now turns to their upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Swansea City, followed by a Premier League clash with Bournemouth next weekend. Guardiola remains optimistic, insisting that his side are far from finished in the title race. “Our job is not to look at the table. If Arsenal win all their games, congratulations to them. But I feel the team is alive, and that’s what matters most.”
