Pep Guardiola has declared that the “real season starts now” as Manchester City gear up to intensify their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

City trimmed Arsenal’s lead to four points before the international break, delivering a commanding 3-0 win over Liverpool just as the Gunners slipped to a 2-2 draw at Sunderland. With momentum shifting, all eyes are now on how the title race unfolds heading into the winter schedule.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash against Newcastle at St James’ Park, Guardiola admitted that keeping the pressure on Arsenal is crucial — especially considering how relentless top contenders can be.

“The feeling I had with Liverpool in past seasons was that they didn’t drop many points,” Guardiola said. “If Arsenal take a big distance, it will be difficult to catch them.”

Despite that warning, Guardiola made it clear: nothing is being decided in November.

He described the Premier League campaign as having two distinct phases — the early months before international breaks and the intense stretch afterward, where games come every three to four days. And according to the City boss, this is when the real battle begins.

“Now the international break is done, we’ll be together until March. Now the real, real season starts.”

A win at Newcastle would push City within a single point of Arsenal, who take on rivals Tottenham the following day. With the schedule tightening and form becoming everything, City know how pivotal each match can be.

Guardiola also provided a fitness update, revealing that only Mateo Kovacic and Rodri remain sidelined.

“Everybody is fit except Kova and Rodri,” he said. “Rodri is making good steps. He just needs time to recover mentally and physically to stay consistent.”

With the title race heating up and the fixtures coming fast, Guardiola’s message is clear: City are ready, focused, and entering the phase of the season where champions are truly made.