We forget they are human: Guardiola defends Man City players
What's the story
Premier League champions Manchester City were stunned by Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday. Norwich won the tie 3-2 to hand City their first loss of the campaign. It was a game that saw City make several mistakes defensively. However, manager Pep Guardiola defended his side and said they are just humans. Here's more on the same.
NORvMCI
Norwich stun City 3-2 at home
Norwich, who won Premier League promotion this season, raced into a two-goal lead but a Sergio Aguero header just before half-time kept City in the game. A Nicolas Otamendi error allowed an in-form Teemu Pukki to make it 3-1. That was followed by a late goal from Spaniard Rodri. However, his striker wasn't enough for the champions.
Quote
Sometimes you know we make mistakes, says Pep
"Not for one second am I going to doubt my players," said Guardiola. "Sometimes you know we make mistakes. I think sometimes we forget these guys are human.Football is quick. Things can go wrong and I must see what I can do to help them."
Defensive issues
City miss the services of injured Laporte
Guardiola's side was dealt a blow just before the international break when defender Aymeric Laporte injured his knee against Brighton. He will be on the sidelines for six months. His absence saw the likes of John Stones and Otamendi play in the centre of defense at Norwich. They have featured together just four times in the club's past 57 games.
Crisis
Pep plays down defensive crisis
Guardiola played down the issues in his defense with Otamendi and Stones pairing up. "They play together a lot," Pep added. "They are the central defenders we have - we don't have more. It's not a worry." It remains to be seen how City cope with Champions League football starting this week. Guardiola will hope to give them the confidence to shine.
Information
Liverpool go five points clear at the top
Saturday saw Liverpool beat Newcastle to go five points clear of City. Also, other top four contenders won their respective games. The likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United registered wins ahead of City's defeat.