Pep Guardiola Hits Out at Critics Following Manchester City's Revival

Pep Guardiola, speaking on Friday, took a swipe at commentators and ex-players for hastily forming opinions after Manchester City's rocky opening to the campaign, while he eyes the top spot in the Premier League.

Since enduring consecutive Premier League losses to Tottenham and Brighton in August, which left them trailing far behind, City have remained undefeated across their last nine fixtures in various competitions.

Guardiola's squad, set to face Aston Villa on Sunday, now trail table toppers Arsenal by only three points, with the Gunners welcoming Crystal Palace that afternoon.

The City manager, boasting six Premier League triumphs at the Etihad, noted that his side possesses solid momentum yet continues to seek greater steadiness.

"Our mindset and physical presence are spot on, providing stability, yet we must elevate our performance across the full 95 minutes," he remarked.

City have overtaken defending champions Liverpool in the standings, the latter having dropped their previous three league outings after kicking off with five straight victories.

During his pre-match briefing, Guardiola offered a wry reply when questioned about his team operating "under the radar".

"After the initial two or three matches, we were written off, and Liverpool were proclaimed finished, yet now the narrative has flipped, with Liverpool deemed done, though I assure you they will rebound," he commented.

"I have repeatedly stated that I am familiar with the pundits, experts, and former pros, who seem to predict outcomes after just five games. Such foresight eludes me.

"I prefer to assess after 10 or 15 matches to gauge the true situation, but clearly Liverpool and Arsenal remain contenders, others will emerge, and with luck, we shall join them."

Guardiola anticipated a challenging encounter versus Unai Emery's Villa outfit, who have triumphed over City at Villa Park in each of the prior two campaigns.

The Birmingham club began sluggishly but have risen to 11th position via three consecutive victories.

"It has consistently proven difficult, particularly on the road, facing Aston Villa," Guardiola stated. "Thus, it serves as an excellent benchmark for our current form."