The City boss was asked about the topical subject of set-plays, something many managers have shared their thoughts on this week.
Speaking at his pre-Nottingham Forest press conference, Pep says that the fact so many teams have become more effective in this area of the game proves the league has become even harder to win.
“When Arsenal score from set-pieces and they are so happy, the fans are happy, the players are happy and I’m pretty sure the manager is happy,” said Pep.
“Ask all the Arsenal fans and I’m sure they won’t change one second of set pieces.
“All teams want to create that vibe; we struggle a little more.
“Enjoyable or not, I don’t agree with people saying it’s not fun or that the winner of the Premier League this season [will not be] good. I don’t agree because it’s tougher – really, really tough.
“Wolves at the bottom, they beat Villa and Unai is one of my mirrors as a manager - I learned a lot watching them, [and Unai’s] incredible preparation. It’s tough. Look at Nottingham Forest - look at their players, player by player and look how are they struggling.
“The dynamic and expectation last season, in the Europa League, not in the Champions League – the expectation is high, maybe you can handle it better – I don’t know - it is what it is.
“Year by year the Premier League is tougher, the quality of managers rises a lot, incredible staff, their knowledge for everything – they see what you do in one game and make a counter-action so you cannot do it again next time you play them, because they make something different, analyse and make contrast to that.
“That’s why I give a lot of credit to my team to be there.”
Be at City v Nottingham Forest!
We welcome Forest to the Etihad Stadium at 19:30 (UK) on Wednesday 4 March.
And you can be there to see it as Pep Guardiola’s City continue to chase Premier League glory.
Tickets for this game are now on sale to all fans, starting from just £25 for adults and £23 for U18s.
Or, if you fancy something more special, hospitality packages start from just £199 with other experiences tailored for every budget!
