Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shown rare support for rival Liverpool, expressing confidence that the Reds will recover from their recent setbacks and rejoin the Premier League title race.
Over the past decade, Liverpool and Manchester City have set the standard in English football, often going head-to-head for the championship. However, after a dip in form that saw Liverpool suffer three straight league defeats, Guardiola has called for patience, reminding fans that early-season conclusions can be misleading.
City recently overtook Liverpool in the standings and now trail league leaders Arsenal by a narrow margin. But Liverpool’s emphatic 5–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League has reignited belief at Anfield. A win at Brentford this weekend could bring them within one point of Arsenal and intensify pressure on their rivals.
Speaking ahead of City’s clash with Aston Villa, Guardiola dismissed suggestions that his team are being overlooked in the title race while also defending Liverpool’s early-season struggles.
“In the first two or three games we were out, and now people think Liverpool are done,” Guardiola said. “I can tell you, they’ll be back. I always wait 10 to 15 games before making any judgments. Liverpool and Arsenal are there, and hopefully we’ll be there too.”
Guardiola’s remarks reflect his long-standing respect for Liverpool’s consistency and resilience under pressure. The Spaniard’s balanced outlook contrasts sharply with recent pundit opinions. Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool to strengthen their defence after conceding 11 goals early in the campaign, while Paul Merson predicted that Arsenal could pull away before year’s end if trends continue.
Manager Arne Slot and his squad will look to build on their European success as they face Brentford. Playing ahead of Arsenal and City gives Liverpool the chance to close the gap and set the pace for the weekend’s fixtures.
Slot is expected to remind his players that consistency is key if they are to remain in the title race. Last season, Liverpool trailed City by a point at a similar stage before surging seven points clear within two months—a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change.
Guardiola’s comments underscore the unpredictable nature of the Premier League. With only eight matches played, there’s still plenty of time for twists in the title chase.
For Liverpool, this weekend’s fixture offers more than just three points—it’s an opportunity to prove their resilience and reestablish themselves among the frontrunners.
