Pep Guardiola admitted his side found it tough against a “really good team” in Everton after winning 3-1 at Goodison Park on Wednesday evening.
Man City were victorious on their delayed trip to Merseyside thanks to goals from Phil Foden, Riyad Mahrez and Bernardo Silva.
Richarlison had pulled Carlo Ancelotti's side level just before half time, but the runaway Premier League leaders stepped up their game again in the second half to come away with all three points.
However, Guardiola admitted it wasn't an easy game for his side following the game thanks to the way Everton defended.
He told his post-match press conference: “It was a really tough game. It was difficult to attack with wingers because the full backs were so close, the gaps were close between Doucoure and Davies.
“It was not easy to find space, but we were patient enough.
“We conceded a goal, and I don't think another chance. We created enough to win.
“Goodison Park is always tough to come to, but I'm incredibly satisfied again for the mentality. It's a lot of wins in a row and we still have the desire.
“In football in the highest level, you concede goals. That happened in Anfield, when they equalised we reacted very well.
“It was a real tough game, because they defended so deep, they are so big, they are experienced - [they're] a really good team.”
When looked ahead to the busy schedule facing his side, Guardiola also made reference to the FA Cup tie at Goodison Park that is coming in March.
He believes that Everton's display on Wednesday evening proved how difficult it would be for his side in that match too.
“We are going to come back in two or three weeks here to try and get to the semi finals of the FA Cup,” he added.
“Today, Everton showed us how difficult it will be. The best way is not to see the schedule or calendar because it's so demanding, and just think about the next one and prepare as well as possible.
“It's non-stop, so we have to recover well, try to make the best selection as possible to have fresh people in mind and body, and try to win the next one.”
