Guardiola’s 1000th managerial game concluded with a 2-0 home loss to Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday evening, marking a disappointing display from his team, who enter Saturday’s fixture having secured victories in their last four Premier League matches against Leeds.
The Spanish coach was questioned about Bernardo Silva, whose contract ends this summer, amid reports that he could leave on a free transfer at age 31 as multiple clubs show interest.
"I want the best for Bernardo, and if he chooses to stay, I will be extremely pleased and happy.
"However, I don’t discuss this topic with him. I want what’s best for his family. He has already spent nine years here, and he will decide with the club what is best."
Shifting focus from one striker to another, Guardiola commented on Erling Haaland, who was born in Leeds and has scored in each of his last five Premier League matches at the Etihad. He was asked if City depend too much on the forward, who has 14 Premier League goals this season.
"It’s not the primary concern, but obviously we need to involve more players. Overall, except for the last game, we have done many good things in terms of play and defense...
"Erling is certainly very important, but so are the others."
The defeat to Leverkusen midweek was their first group-stage loss at the Etihad in over seven years. Guardiola reflected on that defeat and the rotated squad that failed to impress, despite having a squad with a higher value than Leverkusen’s starting lineup.
"I had great faith in them. Even now, I hold a very high opinion of them as footballers, perhaps even higher than they have of themselves.
"It was a valuable lesson for me, even with my experience as a manager, and a good lesson for the future."
Arsenal continues to strengthen
League leaders Arsenal currently hold a seven-point advantage over City this week. While City lost to Leverkusen, the Gunners secured a statement victory over Bayern Munich.
Guardiola believes Arsenal is becoming stronger, which is a concerning development for City.
"Regarding the upcoming weeks and matches, I always focus on the next game and then we will see after that.
"I am aware of the gap already, and Arsenal is very strong; we see it match by match... You can see they are improving continuously as a team."
Leeds have been defeated in five of their last six Premier League games. Daniel Farke’s team has conceded at least one goal in each of their last nine league matches, causing them to slip into the relegation zone.
Despite this, Guardiola has expressed strong support for Farke, who is facing intense pressure.
"I hold an incredible opinion of Daniel. I have a very good relationship with him.
"I understand the Premier League is always like this; you can have a good run of results, but eventually, bad results can follow because the opponents are strong, every team is well prepared...
"It’s extremely demanding. You must be ready."
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