“Let the Pundits Talk – We’ll Do the Winning”: Guardiola Bites Back as Manchester City Eyes the Top

Pep Guardiola has fired back at critics who wrote off Manchester City after their slow start, insisting his side is “back in rhythm” and fully focused on reclaiming the Premier League summit.

City endured early struggles this season with consecutive defeats to Tottenham and Brighton in August, prompting many to question their dominance. Yet, Guardiola’s men have since bounced back impressively – unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions and now sit just three points behind leaders Arsenal ahead of Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa.

“The mentality is right, the body language is right,” Guardiola said with confidence. “That gives us stability. We just need to play better for 95 minutes.”

Asked if his team was being overlooked, Guardiola responded with trademark sarcasm. “After two or three games, people said we were finished and Liverpool were unstoppable. Now Liverpool lose three and they’re done? I’ve seen this before,” he said. “I wait 10 or 15 games to know what’s really happening. The pundits think they know after five.”

The Spaniard, who has won six Premier League titles with City, said he expects a tight title race involving Arsenal and Liverpool, while hinting another team could also surprise. But he remains cautious about their next challenge –  Unai Emery’s rejuvenated Aston Villa.

Villa, who started the campaign poorly, have climbed to 11th after three straight wins and have beaten City at Villa Park in the past two seasons. “It’s always tough there,” Guardiola admitted. “They’re well-organized, aggressive and improving fast. It’s a good test for us.”

Despite the cautious tone, Guardiola’s belief in his squad remains firm. He brushed off talk of early-season panic, reminding fans that City often grow stronger as the campaign progresses. “We’ve been here before,” he said with a grin. “Let the pundits talk – we’ll do the winning.”

As City prepare for another crucial test, Guardiola’s message was clear; form may dip, critics may talk but Manchester City’s hunger for the title remains unshaken.