With this game being billed by many as an early indicator of where the Premier League title will be headed, Pep Guardiola was keen to play down the importance of today’s match in that context.
“(It has always been a tight game in the last years because they are good but we are good too,” said the Manchester City manager. “In many things, high pressing, transition, they are a complete team.
“That’s why they have been our biggest rivals in last two seasons. Early stage of the season so nothing more than mood and influence for next games. In terms of the table, it’s not so important. What will be important is when we go to London in the second part of the season.
“It’s not a motivation that we have to win to be five points ahead after five fixtures.”
