Exclusive: Man City's 'eventful' transfer window blamed for worst start in 21 years as Sergio Aguero admits he's 'amazed' at criticism of Pep Guardiola ahead of huge Manchester derby

City sit 13th in the Premier League table after three games, having beat Wolves 4-0 on opening day, before losing to both Tottenham and Brighton in succession. That has led to criticism of manager Guardiola, but Aguero insists that he has proved he has the ability to turn their form around, and says he is "amazed" that critics are doubting one of the best managers in the game. 

Indeed, City signed multiple first-team players in the summer that need to be bedded into the team: Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, James Trafford, and Gianluigi Donnarumma. They have also seen Ederson, Manuel Akanji, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Kyle Walker, and Jack Grealish leave the club and Aguero is not surprised they have not exactly hit the ground running. 

Aguero told GOAL via Stake.com: "They have made their worst start in 21 years..

"Can't say it's been a stellar start. I chalk it off to a very eventful transfer window, with a lot of players coming and going. They are still going through a process of rebuilding the squad, and some time might be needed for the team to perform at full capacity. I'm sure they'll be able to achieve it."

On Guardiola, he added: "I believe Pep's achievements should merit consideration for his point of view. I'm still amazed that he's getting fresh criticism after a not-so-stellar season, and a rocky start to this one. For years on end, Pep has led the team to take many titles, and when we couldn't, we were consistently one of the key challengers. He has built an enormous legacy, something everyone should value. 

"Is it possible the team has hit a slump? Perhaps – but that only serves as a foil for the epic accomplishments of his tenure. Fighting every tournament every year is no easy thing to do. That's why I trust him to correct course and show us the path to return to form."

City face Manchester United in a huge derby this weekend; Ruben Amorim's side are currently ahead of their neighbours in the league table.