Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has played down his side’s record-breaking start to the English Premier League this season.
Manchester City recorded their 18th straight win in the EPL by defeating Newcastle United 1-0 on Wednesday and could equal a European record set by Bayern Munich of 19 straight wins in a season if they defeat Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on the 31 December.
“You talk about the numbers and the records,” Guardiola said during his pre-match conference on Friday.
“That is a consequence of what we do on the pitch. It doesn’t count. What counts is what we have to do against Crystal Palace.”
Guardiola also allayed fears of Vincent Kompany’s injury who lasted just 11 minutes in City’s 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Wednesday.
“Not as bad as we thought. He will be ready for the next fixtures. We will know exactly tomorrow. It was a calf strain, but it is not a big issue.”
He also revealed that John Stones is close to a return after suffering a foot injury.
Guardiola Shrugs Off Man City’s Record Run, Praises Liverpool’s Van Dijk
