Gabriel Jesus scored the only goal of the game at Stamford Bridge, where City produced a dominant display to end the home side’s unbeaten start to the campaign.
The defending Premier League champions controlled the contest with 59% possession and prevented Chelsea from registering a shot on target in a performance which ranks amongst our best this season.
Guardiola does not feel that game will have much bearing on the outcome of Saturday’s reverse fixture at the Etihad Stadium, and whilst he was pleased with his players efforts, he says that display can be elevated by improving in attack.
“It was a really good performance,” he said at his pre-match press conference.
“We minimised the champions of Europe when they had all players fit. It was really exceptional, but at that moment we were below them, we knew the difficulty if we didn’t get points at Stamford Bridge.
“Our commitment with and without the ball was exceptional. That’s why we won, unfortunately it was a small margin because we could have scored more.
“The victory was nice but tomorrow will be completely different because we learned from that. We can do better, especially in attack.
“They will change like the Chelsea manager said. They are going to change their approach and they know they have to get points to still be there.”
Guardiola confirmed his side continues to be affected by COVID-19 ahead of Chelsea’s visit.
The City boss revealed some of the players who missed the FA Cup win over Swindon Town remain absent, whilst there are also new cases within the squad.
The outbreak of the virus afforded several youngsters opportunities against Swindon, with Cole Palmer delivering a man of the match display and Guardiola says he has faith in Academy players, but they must remain patient in their bid to establish themselves in the first team.
“It’s a question of patience,” he added
“Not all academy players can play with us. Some of them can and they play in the cup.
“Cole is more settled right now and McAtee can play as well. There are one or two more players who can help and be involved in the future.
“They have to be patient. There is a big road to follow to become settled and officially a player with us.”
