Every Word: Pep Guardiola’s pre-Newcastle press conference

Manchester City return to Etihad Stadium action this weekend, as the Premier League champions welcome Newcastle United to the north-west.

City’s top-flight title challengers Arsenal finally completed their game in hand on Pep Guardiola’s side in midweek, with a 4-0 home win over Everton moving the Gunners five points clear at the top of the division.

In case anyone needed a reminder, that means that anything less than a victory this weekend will be firmly deemed as points dropped, in a title race that is indicating a necessity for Manchester City to continue winning every game they face.

City are putting together an exciting run of form at the moment, coming into the clash against Eddie Howe’s side off the back of a six-game unbeaten run, and a fine 0-3 away victory in the Emirates FA Cup over Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

Ahead of the weekend’s Premier League action, Pep Guardiola has faced the media in his traditional pre-match press conference, addressing a number of topics including Eddie Howe and his job at Newcastle United, Javier Tebas, Rafaela Pimenta, and Vincent Kompany.

Here is every word from the boss at the City Football Academy on Friday afternoon!

On Eddie Howe and Newcastle United

“Incredible what happened last season, and this season they are taking a step forward. What I have seen lately, what they have done all season, it is one of the toughest (opponents) we have. The threats, transitions, set pieces; they’re the best team in the Premier League.”

On the fitness of Stefan Ortega, Aymeric Laporte, and John Stones

“They already trained. They feel better, much better.”

On Manchester United’s Carabao Cup win inspiring Manchester City

“No. Nothing.”

On Vincent Kompany

“I am impressed with the consistency (of Burnley), the Championship is difficult. It is unbelievable. They are close to promotion (to the Premier League) and I am delighted for him, personally. He will be back (at Manchester City as a manager) sooner or later, it is written in the stars. It is going to happen. I don’t know when, but it will. It is a big chance to reach the (Emirates FA Cup) semi finals.

“Sooner or later, he will be manager for Manchester City, but I am not sure when. I have not spoken to him about it. He knows the club, the environment. The destiny is there.”

On comments made by Erling Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta

“I don’t answer to the agents. No comments.”

On Javier Tebas

“No comment. I make a statement to the club and now the lawyers do their job.”