Guardiola sceptical over Man United title chances

Joe Williams

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola reckons Manchester United are a good shout to finish in the top four but has hinted that winning the league this season would be a little bit out of their reach.

The Red Devils have drawn their last three games in the league against Everton, West Ham and Arsenal when their performances probably deserved more from at least two of those matches.

Last season’s FA Cup winners are nine points behind fourth-placed City and thirteen adrift of Premier League leaders Chelsea, who are flying under Antonio Conte.

On whether United could realistically finish in the top four this season, Guardiola told The Times: “How they played lately, yes.

“I saw the games against Stoke [1-1], Burnley [0-0] and another one at Old Trafford. They deserve by far to win those games. But football is like this.

“Of course United have the quality, for the history, the managers and the players to be there.

“Thirteen points is a long distance, especially when one team is winning games with the quality of Chelsea. So it is not easy. But to be in the top four? Of course.”