Pep Guardiola issues Man City warning to Arsenal and Liverpool after Everton win

Pep Guardiola has issued a clear warning to Manchester City's Premier League title rivals following their 3-1 win against Everton at Goodison Park. City returned to Premier League action last night after winning the Club World Cup earlier this month.

The reigning Premier League champions have performed below par so far this season compared to their usual standards, but they remain in the title race along with Liverpool and Arsenal. Jurgen Klopp's side currently sit top of the table following their 2-0 win against Burnley on Boxing Day, but the Gunners have the chance to reclaim top spot tonight as they face West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.

Gary Neville believes City are still the title favourites despite the treble winners currently being five points adrift of top spot. Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, the former Manchester United defender said: «For Manchester City, they have been below par, let's be clear, I won't use the word complacent, but they've been below par by their standards.

»But I think if they're going into February in a position where they're neck and neck with these teams [Arsenal and Liverpool], and these teams haven't stepped up a level, they'll feel really confident because that sort of know-how of running down the final straight with that power in attack in Erling Haaland. If Kevin De Bruyne comes back as well, he can be a difference maker."

Haaland was absent once again last night as City came from behind to claim a 3-1 victory against Everton on Merseyside. Despite missing some key players, Guardiola has sent a warning to City's title rivals as we head into the new year.

Speaking after the win against the Toffees, the City boss said: «That's why we are the world champion, the best team of the world.