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Manchester United 4-2 Sheffield United: We were totally in control, says Ten Hag

Jon Fisher
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Manchester United 4-2 Sheffield United: We were totally in control, says Ten Hag

Erik ten Hag claimed Manchester United were “totally in control” despite having to come from behind twice to beat Sheffield United 4-2 at Old Trafford last night.

United trailed 2-1 with half an hour to go after goals from Jayden Bogle and Ben Brereton Diaz, either side of a Harry Maguire header, had put the rock-bottom Blades in sight of a shock win.

Read our other sports news stories here:
UFC Manchester to take place in July
Nadal uncertain about 2024 French Open
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But captain Bruno Fernandes scored twice with Rasmus Hojlund netting a late fourth to end the visitors’ challenge.

It seemed another chaotic evening for United but Ten Hag saw it differently.

He said: “We were totally in control. I’ve seen a different game, sorry.

“We had two giveaways, two times we were behind so we talk about two negatives – one is focus and one is discipline.

“But for the rest I think we were totally in control. The team showed resilience. It is not easy when you are losing the game but we turned it around against a compact team. We outplayed them. We were calm.”

Ten Hag did concede his side need to tighten up at the back, however.

“You can’t make such mistakes at the top level if you want to achieve your targets, if you want to win trophies,” he added.

“You can’t allow these mistakes and focus on discipline because life is much easier when you don’t make such mistakes.”

Ten Hag reserved special praise for Fernandes who, not for the first time this season, dragged United out of a sticky spot.

“He shows his leadership,” Ten Hag said. “But also with his energy, in his transition both ways, it is very important. He tries to encourage the team. He is doing very well and we are very pleased with his performance and with his attitude.”

United have now conceded 17 goals in their last seven games in all competitions – a record Fernandes admits needs to improve.

The Portugal midfielder told the BBC: “We talk about clean sheets all the time and we want to keep them. Credit to Sheffield United. At the end we came back.

“We put ourselves in a position where it’s tough to win games. But also it shows a bit of character. We also need to be aware that if we control the game like we did in the first half, we have to score our chances.

“We’re scoring lots of goals. It’s just about that compactness we need to have as a team. I’m really happy to score, but I want to win games more than score goals.

“It’s part of my role also to score goals. But the main thing for me is winning games. Lately we haven’t won as many as we should have. It’s part of the job.

“You can win eight or nine games in a row, and then as soon as you lose you know you will be criticised. Being a Manchester United player demands winning games.”

The victory moved United up to sixth in the Premier League table, above Newcastle, who were beaten at Crystal Palace.

Easy access service for domestic abuse launched in Rochdale

Helen Greaney
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Easy access service for domestic abuse launched in Rochdale

A new specialist domestic abuse service that makes it easier for people to access help and support has been launched.

The service is available to residents in Rochdale and is delivered through a partnership between its council, Victim Support, WHAG (Formerly Woman’s Housing Action Group), Rochdale Connections Trust and 24-7 Locks.

The new model provides safe accommodation and comprehensive support for victims and survivors, children and young people, and people who harm. It has a single point of access with one phone number and email address. This will help with all domestic abuse-related advice, referrals, accommodation and support. The service accepts self-referrals and referrals from partner agencies.

Kuiama Thompson, director of public health and communities for Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We look forward to working with our partners and want to thank everyone who have been involved in bringing this partnership together. At the core of our vision is the commitment to deliver value to our residents and to keep everyone safe. This new domestic abuse model aims to do just this.

“We can help find the right support for victims and those who carry out harm. We take domestic abuse very seriously and no one should feel unsafe. This easily accessible service will help people find the right advice, one to one support and accommodation for victims, survivors and anyone affected by domestic abuse.”

Kirsty Rhodes, chief executive officer for WHAG, said: “As a local organisation WHAG are delighted to be part of the partnership. The importance of a safe home cannot be underestimated. Being able to support the safe accommodation offer to ensure that individuals and families have a safe and welcoming home, when in need of a secure and stable environment is vital. WHAG is committed to delivering a quality service to the Rochdale Borough community.”

Val Hamilton, area manager at Victim Support, said: “We are thrilled to be launching this much-needed service for anyone affected by domestic abuse in the borough of Rochdale. After seven years of working with Rochdale Borough Council to provide high-quality support for victim-survivors, we look forward to taking on the leading role in this new service.

“Domestic abuse is not something anyone should have to live with, we want people in the local community to know that our team of specialist staff, including independent domestic violence advisors, are here to help. We look forward to working closely with the council, alongside other local services, to deliver the best possible service for those impacted by domestic abuse.”

Rochdale Domestic Abuse Services:

 

The Global Brand Power of Manchester United

News Desk
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The Global Brand Power of Manchester United

Manchester United isn’t just a football club; it’s a global phenomenon that transcends the sport itself. With a storied history that spans over a century, this club has evolved from its local team roots in Manchester to become a brand recognised and revered by millions around the globe.

Its remarkable journey from playing on modest fields to dominating international stadiums showcases not only a history of athletic excellence but also a unique ability to connect with people across different cultures and backgrounds.

But what exactly makes Manchester United stand out in the crowded world of football, resonating so deeply on a global scale?

A History of Success

Manchester United’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a footballing powerhouse is a story of ambition, resilience, and triumph.

Their impressive collection of league titles, FA Cups, and UEFA Champions League trophies are more than just numbers; they narrate the club’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Each trophy has its own story, reflecting moments when the team rose to the occasion, defied odds, and etched its name in history.

This legacy of success has attracted fans worldwide, all excited to experience the ‘theatre of dreams’ with Man Utd tickets; it has also instilled a sense of pride and belonging, motivating each generation of players and supporters to uphold the club’s winning tradition.

Stars that Shine Worldwide

The influence of Manchester United’s legends extends far beyond the pitch.

Players like Bobby Charlton and George Best became symbols of the club’s ambition and style, captivating fans with their extraordinary talents. Eric Cantona brought a blend of artistry and intensity, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s spellbinding performances elevated the club’s global status.

These stars have been more than athletes; they’ve been inspirations, carrying the essence of Manchester United to every corner of the globe. Their legacy is a testament to the club’s ability to discover, nurture, and celebrate greatness, making the iconic red jersey a symbol of excellence in football.

A Community of Fans

The global community of Manchester United fans is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions, all united by a shared passion for the club.

This diverse fan base – which includes none other than Hollywood superstar, Julia Roberts – is not just a spectator; it’s an integral part of the club’s identity, contributing to its unique atmosphere and spirit. Whether it’s through singing in the stands at Old Trafford or supporting the team from thousands of miles away, the fans’ unwavering support and commitment play a crucial role in the club’s ongoing saga.

Their ability to come together, celebrate triumphs, and navigate challenges symbolises the universal appeal of Manchester United, making it more than a football club—it’s a global family.

Media and Marketing Mastery

Manchester United’s prowess in media and marketing extends far beyond traditional avenues. Their strategic partnerships with television networks have ensured that Manchester United matches are broadcasted globally, bringing the action to millions of fans worldwide. With the advent of social media, the club has adeptly harnessed platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, engaging with fans on a personal level.

This approach has bolstered their global visibility and allowed them to lead conversations in the football world, setting trends and establishing the Manchester United brand as a cornerstone of football culture.

Expanding the Brand Beyond Football

The expansion of Manchester United’s brand into sectors outside of football has been a strategic masterstroke. Collaborations with leading global brands have introduced Manchester United-themed products and experiences, extending the club’s reach into fashion, gaming, and even financial services. These ventures have introduced the club to audiences who may not traditionally follow football, while providing fans with new ways to connect with their beloved team.

This diversified approach has solidified Manchester United’s status as not just a sports team but a comprehensive lifestyle brand.

Challenges and Triumphs

The journey of Manchester United is marked by its resilience in the face of challenges. Managerial changes and related issues, for instance, have tested the club’s stability and direction.

Yet, with each transition, Manchester United has shown an uncanny ability to regroup and refocus. Competitive pressures, both domestically and in European competitions, have pushed the club to constantly innovate and improve.

The manner in which Manchester United has overcome these hurdles speaks volumes about its enduring spirit, underlining a legacy built not just on victories, but on the strength to rise after setbacks.

The Future

As Manchester United looks to the future, it’s evident that the club’s influence on a global scale continues to grow.

With plans for stadium expansion, increased investment in nurturing young talent, and a commitment to embracing the latest technological advancements in the sporting world, Manchester United is set to fortify its position as a beacon of excellence in global sports. Beyond these tangible investments, the club’s dedication to fostering community engagement and expanding its digital presence promises to enhance its relationship with fans worldwide.

This blend of tradition, innovation, and a forward-looking vision underscores Manchester United’s enduring legacy and hints at an exciting future where the club remains a standard-bearer for football’s global appeal.

Emma Raducanu ‘mentally and emotionally exhausted’ after Madrid Open 2024 defeat to qualifier

Ben Miller
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Emma Raducanu ‘mentally and emotionally exhausted’ after Madrid Open 2024 defeat to qualifier

Emma Raducanu called tennis “brutal” and said she was “mentally and emotionally exhausted” after losing 6-2 6-2 to Argentine qualifier Maria Lourdes Carle in the first round of the Madrid Open.

The result was Carle’s 10th consecutive win but the 24-year-old’s first in a WTA 1000 main draw, with Raducanu partly putting the setback down to clay.

“She has a lot more knowledge and experience on this surface,” said the 2021 US Open champion.

“She played a great match and I definitely didn’t. I would say the last few weeks have been a lot.”

Read our other sports news stories here:
UFC Manchester to take place in July
Nadal uncertain about 2024 French Open
Haaland to miss Seagulls showdown

Raducanu’s comeback from an injury-strewn 2023 has included a role in Britain’s win over France in the Billie Jean King Cup and her first quarter-final in 19 months at the Stuttgart Open last week.

“I haven’t stopped,” she said. “And then straight to Stuttgart with no rest and then straight here.

“I had to try to adapt to the conditions, which are very different because it’s outdoors and I was playing indoors for the last month.”

Emma Raducanu results: French Open next?

The 21-year-old is set to make the second French Open appearance of her career when the second grand slam of the year starts on May 26.

Aside from her US Open triumph and a run to the fourth round at Wimbledon in 2021, Raducanu has never won more than one match in the main draw at a major.

She is ranked 221st in the world and lost to an opponent 139 places above her in Madrid.

“From the performance today, it was very clear that, mentally and emotionally, I was exhausted,” said Raducanu.

“I was trying to push through and I was just unable to push through today. I guess the sport is just pretty brutal.”

Hearn demands Sheffield provides bigger venue for World Snooker Championship

Jon Fisher
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Hearn demands Sheffield provides bigger venue for World Snooker Championship

Barry Hearn has all but confirmed the World Snooker Championship will move from the Crucible Theatre in 2027 – and warned it could leave Sheffield altogether unless the local council provides a bigger venue.

The Crucible has staged snooker’s biggest event since 1977 and is regarded as one of the most iconic venues in UK sport. Its contract to stage the World Championship expires in three years’ time.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Nadal uncertain about 2024 French Open
Haaland to miss Seagulls showdown
Tevez hospitalised in Argentina

And with Hearn admitting “it’s all about the money”, the former World Snooker chairman and president of Matchroom is now eyeing a venue that can offer greater financial possibilities.

Ideally, that would be in Sheffield but Hearn says that requires the buy-in of Sheffield City Council.

He told the BBC: “I am doing absolutely everything I can to stay in Sheffield and it takes two to tango. I’ll stay here while we’re wanted, and I think we’re wanted.

“But they’ve got to be realistic. We’ve said for the last few years we need a new venue that seats 2,500 to 3,000 people.

“I’m looking for Sheffield to come to the party and if they do, we’re staying. If they don’t, they’re really saying that we don’t want to, so it’s not really my call.”

Conditions at The Crucible have come in for criticism during the ongoing World Championship with Iranian Hossein Vafaei claiming it was “smelly” following his first-round exit.

Seven-time winner Ronnie O’Sullivan, and the sport’s most influential figure, has previously said he would support taking it elsewhere and suggested Saudi Arabia or China, where the prize money would be “astronomical”.

Hearn would be equally happy to break with tradition, adding: “The Crucible has got a fantastic history and it’s been a massive part of my life, but we’ve got to live in the real world.

“There’s a price for everything, whether we like it or not.

“I’d love to tell you we live in a fairy story, but it’s not that simple. In any professional sport played by professional sportsmen, the first demand is prize money and they want to see it as big as possible, and we have a duty to those players.

“I believe next year we go through the £20million prize money, but you must never get complacent in your life and sit down and enjoy the luxury of saying ‘job done’. There’s never enough. It’s all about the money – get used to it.”

Top 3 Ways to Buy Tickets For Euro 2024

News Desk
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Top 3 Ways to Buy Tickets For Euro 2024

Top 3 Ways to Buy Euro 2024 Tickets

The Euro 2024 will be held from June 14 to July 14 in Germany. Football fans will be able to buy Euro 2024 tickets for matches in 10 German cities. There are several ways to buy tickets for Euro 2024. One of them can be found at ticket4football.

Keep reading this article to find out how to buy Euro football tickets easily and hassle-free.

Buying Euro 2024 Tickets on the UEFA Website

To purchase Euro 2024 tickets, go to the UEFA website and sign up. You’ll find all the info you need there, including how to buy Euro 2024 tickets. Indicate which national team you support, because Euro Cup tickets are sold based on this. UEFA will notify fans when they can buy Euro 2024 Germany tickets.

How much are Euro 2024 tickets?- you may wonder. Now, you can find out the Euro 2024 tickets cost. The price for Euro 2024 tickets starts at €30 and goes up to €60.

How much were Euro 2024 tickets? These tickets Euro 2024 are much cheaper compared to the last European Championship. In 2021, the cheapest final ticket was €295, but this year it’s about €70.

Buying Tickets from Partners

Wondering where is Euro 2024 tickets? You can buy Euro 2024 tickets from the event’s official partners. Big sponsors like Coca-Cola will likely have their own Germany Euro 2024 giveaways. Keep an eye on their websites for sweepstakes to get your Euro football tickets.

Purchasing Euro 2024 Through Ticketing Platforms

Many websites sell tickets for Euro 2024 games. Choose the right one to purchase the best Germany Euros 2024 tickets. Consider these factors when choosing where to buy tickets Euro 2024:

  • Use reputable websites to purchase Germany 2024 Euros tickets.
  • Make sure the website offers secure options to pay for Euro Germany 2024 tickets.
  • Choose a site that’s easy to use for buying 2024 Euros tickets.
  • Compare Euro 2024 tickets price on different websites to find the best Germany Euro 2024 tickets.
  • Check out how much are Euro 2024 tickets on various sites to buy Euro ticket cheap and hassle-free.

Buying UEFA Euro tickets through ticketing sites offers great advantages:

  • These sites have different sections for you to find the UEFA Euro 2024 tickets.
  • You’ll find lots of people who perform Euro 2024 tickets sale on these platforms. How much will Euro 2024 tickets cost? – you may wonder. Sellers can set their own UEFA Euro 2024 tickets price.

Wondering about how much will Euro 2024 tickets cost? Compare Euro Cup 2024 tickets from various sellers to find the best price of Euro 2024 tickets.

Why to Purchase Euro 2024 Tickets?

Don’t miss out on your favorite UEFA Euro 2024 Germany match! Purchase Euro 24 tickets now! Finding Euro 2024 football tickets is a breeze. Use the UEFA site, ticketing platforms, or UEFA partners to purchase tickets to Euro 2024.

Wondering about the Euro Cup 2024 tickets price? The cost of 2024 Euro tickets varies depending on the seller. To get the best Euro Football 2024 tickets, it’s smart to buy them in advance.

The most convenient way to get 2024 Euro Cup tickets is to buy them through the ticketing sites. They offer a simple Euro 2024 buy tickets procedure. Some websites even offer last-minute Euro Cup 2024 tickets.

Looking for the UEFA 2024 tickets? Choose a reliable website with plenty of tickets for Euro 2024 Germany. Compare the UEFA Euro 2024 tickets price to choose the best Euro Cup tickets 2024. Pay the cost of Euro 2024 tickets to enjoy the action. Buying 2024 Euro tickets will help you create unforgettable moments Purchase Euro tickets 2024 to witness this grand event in person!

Glass packaging for spirits: quality and design to boost sales

News Desk
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Glass packaging for spirits: quality and design to boost sales

When it comes to spirits, the best choice that one can make is to opt for glass packaging: this material not only preserves the quality and flavour of the contained product for a prolonged period, protecting it from exposure to light, but can also be recycled and reused, representing a 100% ecological and sustainable solution.
A glass spirit bottle, for example, has a timeless appeal that speaks of tradition but, at the same time, offers a minimal and very contemporary aesthetic that can be customised with unprecedented designs and in a wide range of shapes, sizes and styles. This is a trend that appeals greatly to younger consumers of spirits, who are more inclined to choose innovative and alternative glass packaging than the more classic proposals.
Finally, being an inert natural material, glass is capable of preserving and maximising the original taste of the product it contains, offering a clean and pure tasting experience.

The latest in alcohol packaging

In the beverage packaging industry, the focus continues to be on glass, but it does so with an increased focus on sustainability: production becomes more and more environmentally friendly, incorporating sustainable technologies into the processes to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint. 

On an aesthetic level, the beauty of the design becomes interactive and experiential, to provide consumers with additional information and an active shopping experience through the packaging. Customisation of glass spirit bottles will also be a trend for 2024 with the aim of differentiating the product from the competition by making it stand out on the shelf, increase brand reputation and give customers the sophistication and innovation they are looking for. 

There is also a big push towards packaging that offers a multi-sensory experience where every single detail becomes sensation and perception thanks to neuromarketing applied to design to capture attention and convey a product’s identity and story to consumers in an emotional way.

Packaging for spirits: the new EU agreement

When it comes to the packaging regulation, the EU Council, together with the EU Commission and the European Parliament, have reached a provisional political agreement with the aim of making packaging more sustainable, reducing packaging waste in the European Union and promoting the circular economy. This agreement foresees that, by 2030, some single-use plastic packaging formats will be phased out completely, in favour of greener and less environmentally impactful materials, excluding compostable plastic packaging (if collected and disposed of) and composite packaging. 

Furthermore, packaging is to be reduced by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040. A banon the use of alkyl chemicals (or Pfas) for food-contact packaging, the necessary reduction of plastic packaging waste and the use of recyclable packaging has also been established. 

For alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage packaging, at least 10 per cent must become reusableby 2030, with a five-year derogation for member states.

UFC Manchester 2024: UFC 304 to be held in July with fans facing wait until June for tickets

Ben Miller
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UFC Manchester 2024: UFC 304 to be held in July with fans facing wait until June for tickets

Manchester will host UFC 304 on July 27 in the first sporting event to be held at the Co-op Live Arena which will be the largest indoor venue in the UK.

The arena is set to open this month and is likely to feature a card including interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and welterweight king Leon Edwards when the UFC visits the 23,500-capacity setting.

“We have two champions from the UK and fans have been dying for a UFC PPV event,” promotion president Dana White said, describing himself as “so excited”.

“So here we come to the largest indoor arena in the UK. See you soon, England.”

Read our other sports news stories here:
Nadal uncertain about 2024 French Open
Haaland to miss Seagulls showdown
Tevez hospitalised in Argentina

Aspinall, who comes from nearby Salford, had suggested earlier this month that the event would take place at the £365 million arena.

The 31-year-old would be the most likely candidate to headline, potentially facing Curtis Blaydes – the fighter he lost to in cruel fashion when he suffered a serious knee injury within seconds of the start of their fight in London in July 2022.

Birmingham’s Edwards would also be a popular choice, having twice appeared on previous Manchester cards.

Edwards secured a second successive win over Kamaru Usman in the headline bout of the sell-out UFC 286 at the O2 Arena in March 2023.

 

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UFC Manchester tickets, prices

Tickets will go on sale from 10am BST on June 7 via Ticketmaster, the UFC said. Members of the promotion’s Fight Club will have early access on June 5 at 9am BST, and fans who register their interest will be invited to a pre-sale on June 6 at 10am BST.

The average cost of tickets for UFC 268 was reported to be £225.50. There was debate among many unimpressed fans that prices may have been responsible for relatively slow sales for the subsequent UFC event in London, when Aspinall beat Marcin Tybura in July 2023.

Featherweight Nathaniel Wood is rumoured to be lined up for the Manchester event, and Liverpudlian lightweight Paddy Pimblett is also keen to be involved.

Businessman White will oversee the UFC’s 700th event this year, with the first officially taking place in Denver in November 1993.

Almost 500 have been held in the US. Brazil, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Japan are among a wide range of other countries the promotion has visited.

Rafael Nadal French Open finale will only happen if tennis great can ‘compete’

Ben Miller
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Rafael Nadal French Open finale will only happen if tennis great can ‘compete’

Rafael Nadal says he would not play at the 2024 French Open if it took place this week and will only attempt to return to the “emotional” grand slam next month if he is able to be competitive.

With 14 titles, Nadal is by far the most successful player in the history of the tournament but did not appear at Roland Garros for the first time in 19 years in 2023 because of injury problems which are likely to cause him to retire after the 2024 season.

“If I was in Paris today, I wouldn’t go out to play,” said Nadal, who played for the first time since January at the Barcelona Open last week, where he was knocked out in his second match by Alex de Minaur.

“Without trying to confuse anyone, I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next three weeks.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Haaland to miss Seagulls showdown
Tevez hospitalised in Argentina
Ten Hag – Man Utd will have over-performed if they win the FA Cup

“I’m going to do the things I have to do to be able to play in Paris. And if I can, I can and if I can’t, I can’t.

“I’m going to Paris if I feel like I’m good enough. I’m going to Paris if I feel capable enough to compete.”

2024 French Open: Nadal ‘not perfect’

Nadal will play 16-year-old Darwin Blanch on Thursday in the first round of the Madrid Open, where he is a five-time championa and eight-time finalist.

Now ranked 644th in the world through inactivity, he is said he had not known whether he could feature again on the tour a “few weeks” ago.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to play at 100% but it’s important to be able to play for the last time in Madrid,” he said.

“It means a lot to me to play on this court, where I’ve had some great moments.

“It’s not perfect but at least I am playing and I can enjoy again, especially in the tournaments that are so emotional for me. I’m able to enjoy the fun that I can say probably goodbye on court.”

The French Open begins on May 26.

Brighton v Manchester City: Haaland to miss Seagulls clash

Jon Fisher
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Brighton v Manchester City: Haaland to miss Seagulls clash

Manchester City will be without leading-scorer Erling Haaland for tomorrow night’s trip to Brighton.

The Norway striker missed Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final win over Chelsea and will again be absent when City visit the Amex Stadium.

Read our other football news stories here:
Tevez hospitalised in Argentina
Ten Hag – Man Utd will have over-performed if they win the FA Cup
Sunrisers Hyderabad v Royal Challengers Bengaluru – preview and betting offers

There was some good news for boss Pep Guardiola, however, with England duo John Stones and Phil Foden passed fit.

Guardiola said: “Erling Haaland is not ready for tomorrow – the other two they are ready.

“[It’s] not a big issue [for Haaland] but not allowed for this game.”

Arsenal’s 5-0 thrashing of Chelsea last night saw Mikel Arteta’s men establish a four-point advantage over City, although the defending Premier League champions do have two games in hand.

Second-placed Liverpool, who are a point ahead of City having played one game more, take on Everton in the Merseyside derby tonight.

It poises to be a fascinating end to the season and Guardiola is demanding no dip in concentration from his side.

“We have had a lot of problems with important players with injuries, but we are still there,” he said.

“We are in the final of the FA Cup, we made the latter stages of the Champions League and in the Premier League we are there.

“But you can arrive to the end like this and in one week lose all titles, but the team have behaved unbelievable this season again.

“Every game is important now as every mistake and setback is difficult. But we have been here many times so we know what we are playing for.”

A trip to Brighton is fraught with peril, according to Guardiola, despite the Seagulls’ poor recent form.

“They have had a lot of problems, important players were sold,” he said.

“They have a lot of injuries and are playing in more competitions, but the way they play always they are there. He [coach Roberto De Zerbi] is doing an incredible job in Brighton.”

Refereeing standards have hit the headlines once again in recent days following Nottingham Forest’s unhappiness at the performance of Anthony Taylor and VAR Stuart Attwell in their 2-0 defeat at Everton on Sunday but Guardiola says it is wrong to question the integrity of officials.

“Absolutely disagree,” he said. “There are always [issues] in every league, this will happen more and more but of course I never had doubts about that.

“The referees want to do the job as best as possible. They feel the pressure, we put pressure on them for the passion of the game, for the moment, but when I sit here and reflect, they try to do their best and are under scrutiny with the cameras there.

“They make a mistake, they feel bad. It’s normal. When they do the job, they want to do it well. The game is so difficult, it is fast and quick, decisions have to be made in one instant. It’s not easy.”

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