Pep Guardiola backtracks before Liverpool game as Man City boss makes 'incredible' Arne Slot claim

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has backtracked on his claim that the Premier League title race will be over for his side if it loses to Liverpool this Sunday.

Just a few days ago, Guardiola suggested that his "fragile" team needed to avoid defeat at Anfield to remain in contention. But now the Spaniard has sought to instil some confidence in his players ahead of the huge game — insisting the title picture isn't in his mind.

"In the situation we have, it's not realistic to think big targets," Guardiola said during his press conference (via the MEN). "Think one game to give the momentum to continue. That will come back. Even in the situations, it's not realistic to think about the title in November.

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"They are in really good form, so powerful in all departments and the boxes. In the situation we are, losing games in a row, three in the Premier League. Always I think about the target in March, April. In November, December, it doesn't matter what happens on Sunday. It will be more difficult but there are many games to play.

"The challenge is how strong we are in the difficulties. The first knock, we are not stable. In the past, 3-0 up, the game was there in our hands. Now in the first moments, I don't know how we react. Obvious reasons, the absences... but the best place to improve is Anfield."

Asked if Liverpool is the best team in the world at the moment, Guardiola replied: "I don't know. One of the best for the results. Arne is doing an incredible job. When people say City are the best I don't pay attention."

And on the differences he has seen since Arne Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp, Guardiola was also full of praise for Liverpool. "Really good," was his verdict on the start to this season that the Reds have made.

"More positional game, the transitions are still there from every corner or free kick for you is a transition for them," he continued. "It was Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah — now Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Salah. In the past fighting the biggest battles against Liverpool was always a big consideration for this club. Nothing changes; they've lost one game in all competitions."

Liverpool.com says: While Manchester City will obviously not be an easy game for Liverpool, the Reds have a real chance to put down another marker. A win would make a real difference at the top end of the table.