Guardiola Concedes Manchester City Lack Full Team Balance

Pep Guardiola acknowledges that Manchester City do not yet form a "complete team" yet he remains confident they can close the gap on Arsenal in the Premier League title contest.

Guardiola's squad endured a setback earlier this week with a frustrating 2-2 stalemate against struggling Nottingham Forest.

Sitting in second position, City trail the league topping Arsenal by seven points but they possess an extra fixture and will face the Gunners at home come April.

Throughout Guardiola's successful spell at the club, City have frequently recovered from subpar performances.

The manager anticipates a similar turnaround when they take on Newcastle in the FA Cup fifth round this Saturday, though he admitted that his costly revamped squad is still evolving.

"We typically respond effectively. We possess the capacity to move on swiftly. We are not a fully formed team ready for contention, that is the truth, we are navigating numerous adjustments," he stated.

"However, if we adapt more rapidly, the race remains open, and we could enter the final stretch with real opportunities.

"I am certain that the upcoming season will show improvement. I hold no reservations about that."

By alluding to next season, which marks the concluding year of his existing deal, Guardiola is hinting once more at his commitment to stay on at the Etihad Stadium.

Persistent rumours suggest he might depart following a ten year stewardship, but back in December he expressed a desire to continue.

The encounter with Newcastle is set to commence at 2000 GMT, a timing that leaves Guardiola with ambivalent views.

It provides additional rest following the Forest match, yet curtails the buildup time ahead of Wednesdays Champions League last 16 opening leg away to Real Madrid.

"Regaining strength is vitally crucial. Repose, slumber, nutrition, sessions, we understand how to manage it all," he remarked.

"Naturally, returning home earlier aids recovery more than arriving late, but that is how it stands.

"In England, the League Cup holds greater weight for domestic sides than Champions League fixtures

"I make no requests, and if the match is at 8pm, then that is when we will compete."