Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola emphasized that he does not pay attention to title race speculation before each game, choosing instead to concentrate on defeating their upcoming opponents. Despite being in second place, City has been in pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal for months. Their recent 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday kept them within six points of the top spot.

"Every time in the past weeks and months before a game during interviews, the focus is always on the extreme consequences of losing. It's as if losing means disappearing from the face of the earth," Guardiola told reporters on Tuesday, a day before City's match against Fulham.

"So, my question is, what do we need to do to defeat Fulham?"

In Guardiola's ten-year tenure, City, aiming for their seventh English top-flight title, have only secured two wins in their last seven league games. In contrast, Arsenal has pulled further ahead with four victories during the same period.

"While the gap isn't insurmountable, considering Arsenal's performance, six points is significant. The upcoming game is against a team like Fulham, who show improvement each year, so we will wait and see," Guardiola remarked.

In December, City had to work hard to secure a 5-4 win against Fulham. Guardiola commended the progress of the London team under Marco Silva since their promotion to the Premier League in 2022.

"Their movements are impressive. Their play patterns, quality, composure, and speed are remarkable. Marco is truly one of the top managers I have faced and is destined for further success in the coming years," Guardiola praised.

Guardiola confirmed that defensive midfielder John Stones, who had been sidelined due to a thigh injury since the Fulham match, is back in the squad. He also mentioned that defender Abdukodir Khusanov, despite suffering a concussion at Liverpool, was fit to play.

"While Khusanov may not speak like William Shakespeare, his intelligence is evident. He continues to improve and make good decisions," Guardiola commented about the Uzbekistan international.

Guardiola stressed the importance of City enhancing their consistency.

"We have shown glimpses of brilliance. I have felt this for many months, but our inconsistency is a hindrance," he added.

"If we do what is required, consistency will follow. I want us to earn the three points and play in a manner that sustains our position."

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