Not sure Man City are ready despite Community Shield win: Pep Guardiola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is not sure if his team is ready for the upcoming season of the Premier League despite their FA Cup Community Shield win against derby rivals Manchester United. The match ended in a 1-1 draw and the Cityzens won it on penalties.

The Sky Blues will kick off their title defence against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next weekend but Guardiola admitted they could have lost against the Red Devils.

“I cannot answer if we are ready,” said the City manager.

“We could have lost today, we were close to losing with minutes left so that’s why you have to wait. I saw many things today that I like. The first 35 minutes were beyond excellent, unexpected for the time we are together.

The Spaniard admitted they were far from their best but feels it is good to start the season with a title.

“We are far from our best. It’s normal but it’s better starting with one trophy won.

“It’s nicer but the reality is nothing changed for the fact we won.”

Meanwhile, City were on the verge of losing until Bernando Silva scored from a header, after a fine assist from Oscar Bobb. The Spaniard showered praise on Bobb for his impressive performance against United.

“We want more,” said Guardiola.

“The actions in the final third he has to do more regularly. Sometimes he has the chance to take the ball and go and he is a little bit passive, but he has something unique. From a stop, the first steps right and left are unbelievable.

“The action for the goal, he is behind the ball and how he turned and made the cross is a huge quality. He has an incredible work ethic, his intensity in pressing and reading to defend is really good, but he’s still young. Still he has the ability to do it, he has to do it more regularly.”