Guardiola: Man City's dominance hinges on home form

Pep Guardiola believes Manchester City's home form could define their title prospects this season after the champions beat Arsenal 1-0.

City have claimed a maximum 15 points from their first five matches at the Etihad Stadium this term and the manager feels an impressive tally on their own patch will be vital in their quest for a third consecutive Premier League crown.

He said: "We have to be strong at home, it's important because the Premier League is so tough, the opponents are so difficult. So every game we play at home we have to win. We won five and we have to continue."

City's victory over Arsenal was their 21st in a row at home in the league - a run stretching back to a 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace in October 2021.

Only Liverpool, with 24 consecutive home wins between February 2020 and January 2022, have enjoyed a longer streak in the competition's history.

Guardiola is keen to extend the club's impressive home record, with Tottenham visiting the Etihad next weekend.

He said: "I'm so delighted, especially for the victory. After the international break it's always a little bit difficult. The way we played in the second half was really good, especially after conceding a goal."

City remain behind leaders Arsenal in the table but closed the gap to one point with their victory.

Guardiola was pleased with his team's response to falling behind to Bukayo Saka's early strike but admits they still have room for improvement.

He said: "We were not precise enough in the first half but we created enough chances. In the second half we were more precise and aggressive. Arsenal defended really well in the box. In general I'm satisfied with the performance."