Pep’s history boys too hot to handle
MANCHESTER CITY boss Pep Guardiola has taunted his main rivals by admitting he pities them because his team are so good.
Guardiola says he feels sorry for Manchester United and Chelsea because his league leaders are ripping up the record books. City have charged into an 11-point lead at the top of the Premier League table following an historic run of 16 straight wins. United remain Guardiola’s closest challengers in second place following five wins from their last six league outings. The champions, meanwhile, have won eight and drawn one of their last 10 league games to stay third. But Antonio Conte’s men are 14 points behind City and some bookmakers have already paid out on them lifting the title. Guardiola admits either United or Chelsea would be at the top of the table in a normal season. But he insists his side are setting such a blistering pace that it doesn’t matter what the rest do. Asked if he feels sorry for his rivals, Guardiola said: “Of course. I’ve not a bad word for my opponents, because United and Chelsea are making points to be champions. “When I say it is not over, it is not over because one draw or loss could change things and we still aren’t halfway through the season. “I have a lot of respect for the others. Chelsea have played 10, won eight, drawn one and lost just one. “Those are numbers to be champions. When it happens, those ® teams can have no complaints. United are the same. They are having an amazing season.”
City host Bournemouth today and Guardiola has called on referees to protect his players from bad tackles.
The Spaniard was less than impressed with heavy challenges from Harry Kane and Dele Alli last weekend during City’s 4-1 demolition of Tottenham.
Both could have been shown red cards but escaped with bookings and Guardiola wants referees to be tougher with those who put players in danger.
Punish
He said: “I don’t believe the players go to injure another one. “It is impossible to think that, but the football is fast and aggressive and the referees have to follow the rules. “Everybody is squealing about diving here. If they want to punish those who are diving, then okay. “But the main thing the referee has to do is protect the players. I’m not saying just protect City players – protect all the players. “We were lucky against Tottenham. The physicality in England is stronger and you have to deal with that. “If you are not strong enough to match the physicality, you cannot play in this league – but the referees are there to control it. When it is a foul, it is a foul.”