Pep Guardiola Surprises Many by Defending Liverpool in Premier League Title Race
Given the fierce rivalry that has developed between Liverpool and Manchester City over the past decade, few would have expected Pep Guardiola to publicly come to the Reds’ defense — yet that’s exactly what the City boss did earlier today.
After City’s win last weekend pushed them above the reigning champions in the Premier League table, they now sit just behind leaders Arsenal, while Arne Slot’s Liverpool have seen their title challenge stutter following three straight league defeats.
However, after a confidence-restoring 5–1 Europa League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, Liverpool could move back within a single point of Arsenal with a win away to Brentford on Saturday night — at least temporarily.
Guardiola: “Liverpool Will Be Back”
Speaking ahead of City’s clash with Aston Villa on Sunday, Guardiola was asked whether he felt his team was being overlooked in the title race amid the growing focus on Arsenal and Liverpool.
The 54-year-old responded with his familiar mix of sarcasm and insight (via Man City’s official YouTube channel):
“After two or three games, we were already out — and now it looks like Liverpool are finished. But trust me, they’ll be back.”
He added:
“I’ve said many times, pundits and former players always seem to know everything after just five games. I don’t. I prefer to wait 10 or 15 matches before judging who’s really in it. Liverpool and Arsenal are there, someone else will come up, and hopefully we’ll be there too.”
Why Guardiola’s Caution Makes Sense
While Arsenal may currently have momentum on their side, Guardiola’s perspective is hard to dispute. With only eight matches played, the Premier League title race remains wide open.
Some pundits — including Jamie Carragher — have questioned Liverpool’s defensive discipline after conceding 11 goals already, while Paul Merson has boldly predicted that Arsenal could “run away” with the title before the new year.
But Guardiola’s remarks serve as a timely reminder: early-season form can be deceptive. By the November international break, the true shape of the title battle will begin to emerge.
Liverpool’s Chance to Respond
Liverpool’s rescheduled 8 p.m. kickoff at Brentford gives them the chance to make an early statement before both Arsenal and City play their weekend fixtures. A victory would move the Reds within touching distance of top spot and put pressure back on their rivals.
For context, at this point last season, Liverpool trailed City by just one point after drawing with Arsenal — yet by December, they had surged seven points clear and ultimately finished 15 ahead of Guardiola’s men.
If history has taught Premier League fans anything, it’s simple:
Never count Liverpool out of a title race.
