Pep Guardiola: Mindset will decide Man City's season

City sit five points behind Arsenal in the Premier League after the Gunners' 2‑1 win over Chelsea, while also preparing for the FA Cup fifth round, the Carabao Cup final, and a Champions League Round of 16 tie against Real Madrid.

"At this stage, everything comes down to mindset," Guardiola said. "We can only think about the next game and give everything to win it. That is what we have to do."

City's recent form has been tight but effective. A 1‑0 win at Leeds United on the weekend came courtesy of Antoine Semenyo, but Guardiola stressed the difficulty of every opponent. "If you think it's easy, you are wrong. Every opponent makes transitions and creates chances. It's not easy," he said.

The boss joked about scoring more goals, saying: "I said to the players, score five goals today, but they don't follow me." He also highlighted the quality of Leeds, noting, "This team drew at Stamford Bridge and nearly beat Aston Villa - these are incredible teams. Daniel Farke has made an incredible squad."

City are boosted by the return of Jeremy Doku, and Erling Haaland will soon be back, giving Guardiola more options for the busy schedule ahead. "As much as you have players fit, we will do it," he said.

City face a packed March: Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on 4 March, Newcastle United in the FA Cup fifth round on 7 March, Real Madrid in the Champions League on 11 and 17 March, West Ham United in the league on 14 March, and the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley on 22 March.

Guardiola remained clear about the focus required: "One game at a time. That is all we can control. Attitude and belief will decide how far we go this season."