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Guardiola says he "could not care less" about the league table as he focuses on Newcastle

Guardiola
GuardiolaAction Images via Reuters

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has spoken to the media ahead of this weekend's clash against Newcastle United.

City welcome Newcastle United to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday night as they aim to continue their four-game winning run across three different competitions. 

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Guardiola’s side currently sit second in the Premier League table, five points behind Arsenal following the Gunners' 2-2 draw against bottom of the league Wolves in midweek. 

Is the title race opening up?

The first question put to Guardiola focused on the title race which is wide open due to City’s consistent results and Arsenal’s bumpy form. 

“They were nine points when we had a game in hand. When we have played the same games. Many things will happen. Players are new so the experience is new for them. 

"12 games (left) is a lot. It is Newcastle who is my only concern. Now it is them and then it is Leeds. You anticipate what is going to happen as a journalist. I don't know what is going to happen.

"I didn't speak one second about the table, the positions. I could not care less. You have asked me the same question four times."

Semenyo adds more than goals to Man City

Antoine Semenyo, who signed from Bournemouth last month, has scored three goals and supplied an assist in five matches for his new club. The Ghana international has been incredible under Guardiola, who says that he adds a lot more to the side than simply finding the back of the net.

"Not just scoring a lot of goals. He has versatility up front. He is exceptional in the rhythm and in the DNA. We played against him many, many times in the last few years, in the knockout stages of the Champions League will be a good test for him.

"Normally the guys adapt really quick because the guys who were already here help them so no problem."

Finally, Guardiola commented on his team who he admits have enjoyed a much needed rest and are ready for the clash against Newcastle, a side who have failed to win any of their previous 20 league visits to the Etihad.

"We have had few days off. For me it is not a problem (the schedule). The players get a long rest and they train good in the last few days."

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