Manchester City will become the Premier League champions if they defeat Chelsea on Saturday at Etihad Stadium. Both teams will also face each other in the Champions League final later this month, although Pep Guardiola says his only aim is securing the title.
Manchester City’s manager said, “There is not even a thought about the final of the Premier League because we don’t have the Champions League.”
“I’m so careful. I think if you don’t have it, you don’t speak about it.”
Manchester’s win against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday sent them straight to their first Champions League final. It allowed Pep Guardiola to lift the trophy for the 3rd time as a manager following his double success with Barcelona in 2011 and 2009.
Although, the Spaniard says winning the Premier League is always his primary goal over European success, with City on the edge of a third Barclays League title in five seasons under his leadership.
“I’ve always said the Premier League is the most significant title,” he continued.
“Economically for the club, qualification in the European Champions League is the most significant title, but there is no question about what is the most important thing.”
“Certainly, the Champions League is so unique, it’s incredible, but this one means consistency and several things.”
Manchester City’s desires of an unparalleled quadruple were ended by Chelsea the previous month with a 1-0 win in the FA Cup at Wembley.
“I believe the final in Istanbul will really be unique no matter if we win, no matter the score, no matter they win or if we draw,” he said.
John Stones will be unavailable for Manchester City as he’s obliged to complete a three-match international ban. Mateo Kovacic will also be excluded from Chelsea’s starting line up because of a hamstring problem.
