With the exception of 20 minutes against Fulham and the entire game against Bournemouth “we have been fine” since the start of the season. This was the opinion expressed by Manchester City Manager, Pep Guardiola, when asked about the three consecutive defeats his team had experienced and quoted by AFP.
“For everything in life, this is the first time. We hope this doesn't continue,” the Spaniard told the media after his team lost to Tottenham, Bournemouth and Sporting Lisbon.
“For about 20 minutes of the game against Fulham (BA – win 3:2) we were not good. Against Bournemouth (BA – lose 1:2) we were not good. But in other games we were good and we were,' he insisted. “They has repeatedly proven its capabilities. “I haven't changed my opinion about the players,” added Guardiola.
He also emphasized that injuries in the team also had an impact. “This is football, it happens. We know why we are having difficulties. We are looking forward to the game against Brighton and then after the break. After that, some players will recover and return to their best,” assured the specialist.
Guardiola has been without midfielder Rodri, who recently won the Ballon d'Or, for several months. Belgian international Kevin De Bruyne returned to action in the match in Lisbon.
Ruben Diaz, John Stones and Jack Grealish will also not be in the squad for Saturday's match, the coach said.
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