Pep Guardiola has admitted Manchester City failed to match Liverpool’s desperation for the Premier League title.
Liverpool finally sealed their first top-flight crown since 1990 courtesy of Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over City at Stamford Bridge.
Christian Pulisic’s smart finish and a cool Willian penalty subdued Guardiola’s men in west London, with Kevin De Bruyne’s fine free-kick in vain and captain Fernandinho sent off for handball.
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool can now toast their maiden Premier League triumph, with Guardiola conceding that City could not equal the Reds’ desire this term.
“Maybe we didn’t arrive with the same passion; Liverpool played every single game like it was the last chance they have,” said Guardiola.
“And maybe we didn’t get that moment, especially the key moments in the first part of the season.
“That is the reality, that we are so far behind.
“Liverpool were fantastic in consistency throughout the whole season.
“And now Liverpool have shown their quality. It’s clear for us it’s a gap that we want to try and bridge and move towards, but they are two of the best teams in the world.
“So again, credit to Liverpool for what they’ve done.
“There’s a clear gap and it won’t happen overnight with one or two signings, there’s a lot of work that needs to be done.
“But this was a big performance and result for us.”
