Pep Guardiola says his side cannot think about retaining their Premier League title after their recent dip in form and are instead focused on a top-four finish.
Guardiola has won the league in each of the last four seasons and six of the last seven – but Liverpool look well placed to match their 2020 triumph this year.
Liverpool are nine points adrift at the top, with City further back in fifth after their defeat at Anfield.
City face Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, with Guardiola looking to get back on track and end their seven-game winless streak.
He said: “After the results in the past to think about a big goal (to win the Premier League) would be a big mistake. We have to beat a team close to us and take advantage to be closer to the top four.
“We’re not far from being the second team in the league, but it’s all about consistency.
“Liverpool as a team were great and you just have to fight and win games. Step by step we have to move forward again.”
Home support could be important – as City fans hope to avoid defeat in the league for the first time since 2016.
PEP 💬 (On Kevin De Bruyne’s update) He is closer (to full fitness) and (was) even better in the last few days. pic.twitter.com/LWQWkkZEzY
— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 3, 2024
“The fans know what these guys have done in the last decade,” Guardiola said.
“They know we need the support, the players are human and they will do anything to change the dynamic.
“We just have to play and think about the next (game) I don’t know any other way. I don’t feel sorry for myself. It is what it is.”
“Anderson is number one”
Guardiola had some good news to report, saying that key midfielder Kevin de Bruyne is close to full fitness.
However, John Stones will miss the Forest game, while Ederson could return in goal after missing the Liverpool game.
Guardiola said: “Ederson is number one, Stefan Ortega is number two.
“But maybe Stefan (like against Liverpool on Sunday) will still start. Anderson reacted very well.”
