Pep Guardiola has insisted that Chelsea have some of the best players in the world and are title contenders.
City have moved above Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table and will host Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The Blues’ defensive shortcomings this season suggest they could struggle against the champions.
However, speaking at a media conference on Friday, Guardiola made it clear he regards Chelsea as a top side.
“The season for Chelsea is exceptional,” said the City boss, whose team will also face them in the final of the Carabao Cup later this month.
“They are in the final of the Carabao Cup, went through in the Europa League easily and in the Premier League they are there, even if people don’t believe it.
“They have a chance to be champions – nine points (behind) but a lot of games to play. In the cup they are still there as well. I see how they play and recognise what they want to do.
“When you see the team, the players that they have, the squad they have – it’s Chelsea my friend.
“You see the midfield players, you see the strikers – the best strikers in the world are there, the midfield players are the best in the world – and they have a good keeper and experienced defenders.
“I have a lot of respect. The game is a final for us and you have to play in that way.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to assess Callum Hudson-Odoi and Gary Cahill to see if they are fit enough to join the squad for the trip north.
This post was last modified on 08/02/2019
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Pep ģuardiola!! The boss himself, he is pulling our legs...The blues should go out there and pick up nothing not short of a point if we want to still be a contender for the top four cos dropping 3point could be a disaster....Maurizio Sarri shouldn't gamble at all.....Christensen should start instead of Rudiger....