Manchester City's title triumph was Guardiola's 'toughest in career by far'

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola (right) and assistant Mikel Arteta. Picture by PW Sporting Photography

A 4-1 away win at Brighton & Hove Albion this afternoon saw City become the first team this decade to secure back-to-back Premier League crowns.

And they had to battle every step of the way for that honour as they finished a solitary point ahead of runners-up Liverpool after an enthralling title-race.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Guardiola paid tribute to Liverpool for pushing his side all the way and, worryingly for City’s prospective title-opponents, the Spaniard predicted that his team will ‘be stronger’ next season.

Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City player ratings

He said: “It was the toughest title I have won in my career by far. We have to say congratulations to Liverpool and thank you so much, because they pushed us and made us increase our standard.

“To get 198 points in two seasons is incredible. To win the title we had to win 14 games in a row – we knew for the last three months that we couldn’t drop any points.”

“To win two in a row in this league, in this country, with all these incredible managers and players, when everybody invests so much money, it’s because we have done really, really well.

“It will be tougher next season. But we’ll be stronger too.

“I’m sorry, but that’s the reality. I have the feeling next season that we’ll be back. We’ll try to be who we are now.”