“Pep Guardiola has dismissed discussions about his Manchester City team reclaiming the top spot in the Premier League as they gear up to face struggling Everton.
The reigning champions have the opportunity to temporarily ascend to the summit if they defeat Everton in their Saturday lunchtime fixture at the Etihad Stadium.
However, given their previous challenges against Everton – who secured a 1-1 draw in Manchester last season – the City manager is adopting a cautious approach and isn’t assuming anything.
Guardiola remarked, “We need to maintain the same approach we’ve had for many years. Even during our less favorable results, our performance level remained commendable; we were playing well.
“It’s been consistent throughout the season, but tomorrow, we wake up and head straight into a football match at 12:30, so we must be prepared.
“Everton has historically achieved results here since my arrival. I’m not entirely sure why – perhaps because they’re a good side. Hence, we need to be on our toes.
“Hopefully, things will go smoothly, but it’s worth noting that we couldn’t secure a victory against them last season.”
As for Everton, they have endured a winless streak in the Premier League since mid-December and, following a deduction of 10 points for breaching financial regulations, find themselves in the relegation zone as they head to the Etihad.
“Additionally, Everton is confronting another charge that could lead to additional penalties, prompting manager Sean Dyche to question the apparent swiftness in the handling of his club’s cases compared to Manchester City’s.
City faced 115 breaches of regulations a year ago, yet their case is still pending a hearing.
Guardiola declined to comment on this issue during his pre-match press conference on Friday.