Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed the media ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Chelsea.

Chelsea host City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon, with both sides arriving in very different form. City booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals after dismantling Liverpool, inspired by a superb hat-trick from Erling Haaland.

In contrast, the Blues were beaten 3-0 by Everton in their last Premier League outing, leaving them with just one win from their previous six league matches and defeats in three of their last four.

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Guardiola also provided updates on several key players as City continue their pursuit of league leaders Arsenal, who sit nine points clear at the top.

Rúben Dias is improving but will not be available for Sunday, while John Stones may take part in partial training. Mateo Kovačić is fit, and Joško Gvardiol is also recovering but remains some way off full fitness.

City must be close to perfect

With Arsenal in control of the title race, City face the challenge of almost flawless results in their final seven league games, which include difficult fixtures against Everton, Aston Villa, and Arsenal themselves later this month.

Guardiola admitted his side face a tough task if they are to mount a late challenge.

“We have to try to get as many points as possible. In the position we are in, we must win almost everything to have a chance until the end,” he said.

“We have dropped points we shouldn’t have, which is why we are in this situation. We have not been consistent enough.”

Asked if he feels more energised at this stage of the season, Guardiola responded: “No. I have a lot of yellow cards—that shows my energy. I’ve had good energy all season and I still do.”

Will Silva depart?

Finally, Pep Guardiola spoke about Bernardo Silva, amid reports suggesting the midfielder could leave at the end of the season. While Guardiola did not confirm any exit, he made clear how much he would like the 31-year-old to remain at Manchester City.

“He is outstanding in every aspect. He plays so many matches, and in nine years together he has rarely been injured. He can operate in multiple positions, he is extremely intelligent and understands exactly what every situation in the game demands. That reliability gives us huge confidence,” he said.

“All managers would love him because he is incredibly competitive, always has that inner fire. In the biggest moments on the biggest stages, he is always there.”

“In these kinds of games, it is not just about playing well or badly—it is about being yourself and not being afraid. He has had that mentality since day one when he arrived from Monaco.”

“He has been an incredible signing for us. I love this club and I would love for him to finish his career here, but I don’t know. It is his decision.”

“He has delivered in terms of performances, minutes and trophies. I value players most when things are difficult, and he is always the one who steps up and shows he is ready to help.”