City bounced back from the disappointing FA Cup semi-final defeat to Arsenal in emphatic fashion, with a ruthless attacking display that left the struggling Hornets stunned.
Guardiola was critical of his team’s first half performance at Wembley Stadium, but was pleased with how his side responded at Watford.
CHECK OUT THE 2020/21 PUMA COLLECTION
“They were playing for a big issue and we were aggressive in more senses today,” he said.
“I said before, be ourselves. We can play better or worse but there is a minimum in desire and passion and we showed it today.
“You have to do everything to win the game. It is not about winning or losing.
“You can play bad, but you have to run and fight. It didn’t happen against Arsenal, that is why we lost.”
Raheem Sterling netted a first half brace at Vicarage Road, which saw him move onto a career best 19 Premier League goals for the season.
He has scored 29 times in all competitions and Guardiola reiterated how pleased he is with the winger’s goal scoring form.
However, he also took the opportunity to remind his players of what’s required next season, calling for a consistency he feels has been lacking in the current campaign.
“I love when the players can achieve their desires and score the goals and have the commitment to score the goals,” Guardiola explained.
“We cannot forget we finished far away from the champions.
“This season was not good for us in the Premier League. Of course it is better than the other 18 teams, but it is not good enough.
“I think this was the first time we won four games in a row in the Premier League. Last season we won 18.
“That means we must improve our consistency.”
Guardiola also had a word of praise for Joao Cancelo, who made his return from injury with a 90-minute display after starting at left-back.
The boss admitted the Portuguese international has taken time to adapt to life in England, but says his quality has never been in question as he revealed he has been particularly impressed with his efforts since football restarted.
“The most incredible thing for Joao is he is now a completely different man to when he arrived,” Pep added.
“We needed time to understand each other. What I want is what he has been doing after the restart.
“When we came back he was the best player in training. He was incredible, but unfortunately had a problem in his leg and stopped for a while.
“All I want from Joao is for him to happy in training, because we know his quality.
“He understands us better than the beginning. Sometimes you need time. We are delighted with his last two months.”
