Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts ahead of their upcoming match against Brighton this weekend.
Following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in their last game, Guardiola is eager for his team to return to winning ways. Meanwhile, Brighton is in great form, having won their last six matches.
Speaking at a press conference, the Spanish coach praised Brighton for their smart approach to signing players and managers, as well as their impressive style of play. A victory in this match could help City climb into the top four.
“I think Brighton are one of the best clubs working on and off the pitch,” said Guardiola.
“I think they started with Graham Potter, they made a step forward again under Roberto De Zerbi, and now with this exceptional young manager who’s doing incredibly good things.
“It’s not a surprise I’d say, because they’re doing really, really well in the transfer market and the way they play.
“They’re absolutely one of the toughest opponents and in the past there are many teams who were in the middle positions or bottom or whatever, but they make an incredible step up in terms of organisation and consistency for many, many years, that’s the reality.
“It’s not a secret what they’ve been doing. They’re in this position because they’re doing good things, they deserve to be (where they are) in the table.”
He next spoke about the rise of Brighton and other teams from the middle of the league who are challenging for European spots this season. Guardiola named five sides who he thinks could rival City until the end of the season.
“And Bournemouth, and Aston Villa, and Newcastle, and maybe Fulham. Fantastic teams,” he said. “Not a surprise. I had the feeling that they deserve it. They are really good, consistent, they have incredible weapons in the way they play.
Guardiola has admitted that he is not upset about Manchester City’s elimination from the Champions League after their defeat to Real Madrid. He acknowledged that his team is no longer in the competition and has accepted the outcome.
He also shared his thoughts on Atletico Madrid’s controversial exit, where Julian Alvarez’s penalty was ruled out because he made two touches before the ball went in.
“It doesn’t hurt. I don’t have any disappointment. We don’t deserve to be there,” he said. “I Enjoy football for the fantastic games. I am just a spectator to learn and enjoy. I don’t have any feeling that it’s a pity to be out.
“There are incredible teams like Atletico, Liverpool who are out. This competition, what happened with Julian (Alvarez) and Atletico – the margins. Can you imagine you are out of the Champions League for that reason? Atletico were brilliant with the style they played against Madrid but look at that and seasons being good or bad are judged on that.