Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says Liverpool and Tottenham are now superior to them.
Defeat to Leicester City sees his team now six points behind leaders Liverpool.
And Guardiola says Liverpool and Spurs are above the Blues at present on merit.
“They deserve it," he said. “They win games when we don't win games.
“Last season we were so consistent and made a lot of points. They are both so consistent.
“Football is fascinating and unpredictable. You have to be humble, knowing every game is difficult.
“Last season, everyone said it was so easy, but I know how difficult it was. Now we have to start to think about Southampton."