'Didn't think it would be this hard' - Pep Guardiola admits 'I am not good enough' for Man City as dismal derby loss to Man Utd leaves champions' title defence in tatters

City's dismal run of form continued at the Etihad Stadium with a 2-1 defeat by neighbours Manchester United. The hosts had led through a Josko Gvardiol goal in the first half but were beaten by late strikes from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo. The Cityzens have now managed just one win in their last 11 matches across all competitions and sit nine points behind leaders Liverpool in the Premier League.

Guardiola made the surprise claim before the match that he believes he could be sacked by City if the team's poor form continues despite the incredible success he has brought to the club and the fact he has just signed a contract extension. Speaking after the match, the Catalan said he is not doing a good enough job at Manchester City at the moment and needs to find a solution to the team's dreadful run of results.

He told reporters: "I knew it would be a tough season at the beginning but I didn’t think it would be this hard. I am the boss. I am manager. I have to find a solution. I am not good enough, it is simple at that. I am not doing well, that is the truth."

Manchester City were leading until the 88th minute against Manchester United, but ended up losing 2-1 – the latest into a game that a reigning champion has led in the Premier League and lost.

Guardiola will try again to get his Manchester City team back to winning ways on Saturday in the Premier League against Aston Villa at Villa Park.