Speaking on his attacking options, Guardiola mentioned how he believes Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus can star in a striking partnership.
James Robson of the Manchester Evening News writes: “Guardiola has unveiled a thrilling new forward line in recent weeks, with Brazilian international Jesus presenting a major threat to Aguero’s long-held position at the point of City’s attack.
“Alongside Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling, the 19-year-old has been described as the future of the club by City’s manager - and it would be a surprise if he broke up an attack that looked so impressive in Wednesday’s 4-0 win against West Ham.
“But Guardiola moved to assure Aguero of his position.
““I understand the debate,” he said. “But there is no doubt about the quality of Sergio. Sergio remains the most - or one of the most - important players in our squad.
““Without him it will not be possible. He’s played all the games except one in Barcelona for a tactical decsion and one when he’d come back from Argentina.
““The big clubs in Europe always have a lot of strikers - and there has been at this club too - (Mario) Balotelli, (Carlos) Tevez, Sergio, (Edin) Dzeko all together.””
One half of that potential strike partnership – Gabriel Jesus – has taken English football by storm in his first few appearances and continues to be the focus of journalists.
The Daily Mail chose to focus on Guardiola’s revelation that Jesus is taking daily English lessons in order to adapt to Manchester life.
Jack Gaughan scribes: “Gabriel Jesus is working overtime to master English in a bid to communicate with his Manchester City team-mates.
“The Brazilian has enjoyed a barnstorming start to life in the North West, starring in wins over Crystal Palace and West Ham.
“Jesus was particularly impressive during Wednesday night’s win against the Hammers and is now putting Sergio Aguero under serious pressure for top billing at City.
“Fernando has helped translating training ground chatter but Pep Guardiola hopes Jesus - quickly settled to life in the city centre - will soon go it alone.
““He’s 19 years old - but he settled quick,’ Guardiola said. ‘He speaks enough English words to understand us. He takes lessons every single day and that means a lot to me. He wants to settle in the right way.”
Stick with mancity.com throughout the weekend for more build-up to Manchester City v Swansea City!
