City, who are now in second place, fell 2-1 to Bournemouth in their latest league match, following an earlier defeat to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup.

Despite the setbacks, Guardiola's belief in his squad remains unshaken. Liverpool's resilience was on display as they came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1, allowing them to overtake City at the top of the table.

The Merseyside club now sit two points ahead of City, intensifying the title race.

Guardiola remains optimistic about City's title chances, with the team still considered favourites to secure a fifth consecutive Premier League trophy.

"I know our standards. We lost one game in the Premier League. Maybe we will lose against Brighton and Tottenham [next two league fixtures], but we lost one game and we are two points behind a top-class team in Liverpool," said Guardiola.

"I know people expect us to win 38 games 5-0 and the Treble every season because this is our standards - but this will not happen.

"The middle class [teams] in the Premier League rise unbelievably. The top-classs teams always was there; [Manchester] United, Chelsea, Man City, Liverpool, Arsenal.

"In the last years add Newcastle, Tottenham, these teams. But after you see Fulham, Brentford, Bournemouth, sorry, I would say most of the teams! We suffered against Wolves and Southampton!"

He also allayed fears surrounding Erling Haaland's health, after the forward appeared in pain during training.

The manager assured fans that Haaland's injury was not serious, putting focus back on the team's pursuit of another league title amidst a strengthened field.

"He's fine, no problem," added Guardiola. "We have to occupy the news 24 hours a day. I don't think he needs a break."

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PIUS NDUBUOKWU

Time for CAF to review judicial bodies after shocking decision to award AFCON trophy to Morocco — Pius Ndubuokwu

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