City travel to reigning champions Chelsea in today’s evening kick-off (5:30pm) and there’s plenty of discussion around what’s already being dubbed a key game in the title race.
As always, delivering a triple injury update, and his Chelsea counterpart has done the same, expressing his admiration for the City boss.
As Squawka report, Antonio Conte told press: “I have great respect for Pep and I think he’s the best. I like to watch his side’s games.
“We know very well that Guardiola’s team likes to dominate the game, have a lot of possession and create many chances to score.
“He tries to create a squad with a lot of technical and creative players to try and deliver his ideas on the pitch.
“Manchester City have improved on last season and brought in a lot of good signings. They have started very well and are in a great moment with lots of confidence.
“We have to pay attention, as it won’t be easy against City.”
Conte also revealed Andreas Christensen is ready to step in, in David Luiz’s absence. The Brazilian defender will serve the second of his suspension.
The pundits of the footballing world have been casting their predictions of how the game will pan out (you can also do that on the CityMatchday app!).
Former Blue Craig Bellamy, who inspired City to a memorable 4-2 win at Stamford Bridge in 2010, believes a win for either side would issue a real statement.
“If City could get a win it would be incredible,” he said, “and it would be a massive statement to the rest of the league.
“I can see the home side getting something out of it though because of the quality in their squad.
“It’s definitely the game of the weekend and will be Man City’s biggest test so far this season.”
Elsewhere, Wayne Bridge – who represented both sides – has tipped City for title success.
Quoted in the Mirror, he declared: “If I had to pick one to win the title I would go for City.
“They are so dangerous and create so many chances every game. They’ve been scoring five and six, but it could be as many as 10 the way they are playing.
“They are looking even stronger than last season. They punish teams and are not looking to stop at two and three.”
Finally, Ilkay Gundogan has sent a message of support to injured teammate Benjamin Mendy, vowing to help the Frenchman in any way he can.
“I think he’s the guy who’s the most disappointed one,” said Gundogan.
“I think our task now is just to support him and just to be there if he needs something from us.
“I know how difficult these situations are. There’s not really much to talk about at the moment.
“We wish him a speedy recovery and we support him in every way.”
