Pep Guardiola has told his players to remain focused on themselves as they look to regain top spot from a rampant Liverpool.
Manchester City are still in control of the Premier League title race, enjoying a one point lead over the Reds heading into the midweek fixtures. Liverpool hammered Manchester United at Anfield on Tuesday night to go top as their incredible form continues.
City were once in control of the title race but have seen their lead cut down and now must hold off Jurgen Klopp's outfit for the second time in four seasons. Guardiola's team host Brighton on Wednesday night as they aim to go top once more and the Catalan has urged his players to back their methods.
He said in his programme notes: "I want them (players) to continue doing all the things that have made us so successful over the last 5 years. We have our way of preparing and playing and we should stick to it. If we do that, I think we can have a successful end to the season."
Guardiola confessed he would watch Tuesday night's game at Anfield and was hoping their local rivals would do them a favour. He said: "We watch it as a fan. I watch at home, I want to know the result, would love United to get points but it won't change if we don't do our jobs in the next games. We can learn something for both teams."
City's last league outing saw them draw with Liverpool at the Etihad in what was an incredibly high-quality encounter. The defending champions have only won three of their last six league games but are heavy favourites to see off the Seagulls in Manchester.
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When quizzed on the title race prior to the Brighton clash the City boss said: "The challenge is the same as the last two weeks, the same, one point ahead. Every game is a final, challenge and fight until the end." He also added: "Knowing the situation we have right now for the problems we had for many parts of the season makes e so satisfied. Analyse, remember what we are as a team and go forward."
They, like Liverpool, are also eyeing European glory alongside their domestic ambitions. The Champions League has eluded City under Guardiola and they face Real Madrid in the last four as they aim to go one better than last year, where they were beaten finalists.
Guardiola has remained coy on reports City are closing in on the signing of Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund this summer. He said: "No answer to your question. I have another concern in my head to think what will happen in this club next season."
