In an earlier match, Arsenal crushed Sunderland 3-0, extending their lead at the top of the table to 9 points. However, Man City overcame pressure to come from behind and defeat Liverpool, narrowing the gap to six points.

"We are six points behind. That is a significant gap, but many things can happen. 13 matches is a long period," Guardiola said after the match, emphasizing that the packed schedule ahead, including the FA Cup, League Cup final, Champions League, and the risk of injuries, will create many variables.

Coach Pep Guardiola celebrates after Man City's 2-1 victory over Liverpool in Premier League matchday 25 at Anfield, Liverpool, UK on the evening of 8/2. Photo: AFP

In Premier League matchday 26 on 11/2, if Man City defeats Fulham at home at the Etihad, they will temporarily narrow the gap to three points. Arsenal will then be under pressure during their away match at Brentford the next day.

Guardiola believes that the pressure in the final stretch could cause Arsenal to stumble. "It is important that we stay close to them, apply continuous pressure, and capitalize if Arsenal makes mistakes. We still have a home match against them, and of course, we must win," he said, referring to the crucial clash at the Etihad on 18/4.

According to the Catalan coach, competition in the Premier League is not only from the top teams. "There are also teams competing for European spots, and teams fighting for relegation," he stated. "When playing against teams at the bottom of the table, they will play with 200% effort to avoid relegation. Those matches are always challenging. In my experience, 13 matches is a very long time. This final stretch is tough, but it is important to always remain in the race."

At Anfield on 8/2, Liverpool opened the scoring with a spectacular free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai. Erling Haaland then shined, assisting Bernardo Silva for the equalizer before scoring a penalty to make it 2-1.

Man City seemed to have sealed a 3-1 victory when Rayan Cherki scored from midfield in the 10th minute of stoppage time. However, VAR determined that Szoboszlai had fouled Haaland earlier. Consequently, referee Craig Pawson disallowed the goal and showed a red card to the Liverpool midfielder for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, even though the ball had entered the net.

Guardiola disagreed with this decision. "Usually, there are many such shirt pulls in a match, and the referee lets play continue. Just allow the goal, continue the match, and let Szoboszlai stay on the pitch," the 55-year-old coach said.

For the first time since 2021, Man City won at Anfield. This also marked the first time in the Premier League era that Man City defeated Liverpool in both legs of a season. In the first leg, the Manchester club won 3-0 at the Etihad.

"Very difficult. Anfield is Anfield," Guardiola said. "The tradition, history, and stands here always create immense pressure. Everything feels smaller, more cramped, and the pitch is not as wide as at the Etihad. Liverpool has quality players, and every aspect of playing here is challenging."

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Mancity.com)