Klopp had to go on a spree to catch us up

Pep says City set new standards

Pep Guardiola does not begrudge liverpool’s exorbitant summer spending — and claimed it is a direct consequence of Manchester City raising the bar to unforeseen levels last season.

Jurgen Klopp was previously strongly opposed to the money thrown around by title rivals but has been afforded £250million for new signings since January.

Those chasing City must lavish huge sums to catch up after Guardiola became the first manager to chalk up 100 points in a premier league campaign during their title procession.

‘every club do what they believe. i understand the money comhe pletely,’ Guardiola said ahead of the friendly against liverpool in New Jersey in the early hours of tomorrow morning.

‘i’m not concerned at what someone says one day (in the past). liverpool believe they need these players and spend this money so i’m not judging what they’re doing.

‘if they decide that, then it’s perfect for them. i don’t like when my colleagues talk about me.

‘We increased the level of the premier league and that means the others want to do better and better. always liverpool are contenders with the history they have. We’ll see on the pitch.’

Guardiola, an overwhelming favourite to become the first manager in a decade to win consecutive titles, insisted City will not be as dominant.

‘We’re not going to break any more records — it’s impossible,’ added. ‘ When we come back from america we have four or five days and we’ll see their faces.

‘The target is how to prepare to win the game, the records we took last season were a product of what we do every single day.

‘if we start comparing positions in November or december, we’ll lose everything we have done.’ Guardiola committed to signing a three-year contract in May. if he finishes that it will be the longest he has ever managed at a club.

Speaking for the first time about the decision, the Catalan said: ‘i am comfortable and the club trust what we are doing. The club know it depends on results. Football trainers are always in a dangerous position.

‘My family is happy in Manchester, my experiences of the premier league are good. i have a young team and i am comfortable working with them. i’ll do my best to keep this team together.’