City have secured victories in three of their last five matches across all competitions and are back in contention for the title following Arsenal dropping points against Chelsea over the weekend.

Guardiola’s team have triumphed in each of their previous five encounters with Fulham in all tournaments and will look to maintain that streak when they visit Craven Cottage on Tuesday night in what promises to be an intense match.

Did Donnarumma act deceitfully?

The Spanish coach initially addressed the Leeds United match and the accusation from manager Daniel Farke that goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma pretended to be injured to 'bend the rules' during the weekend.

When asked if his team would have dropped points in a similar game last season, he replied: "I don't know (if City would have won that game last season), I don't know. I can't say what happened or what might have happened. Honestly, I don't know.

"Everything depends on Phil scoring the goal. I don’t judge the team’s mentality based on a single win. I don’t believe in those kinds of assessments.

Guardiola mentioned he had not discussed the Saturday incident with his goalkeeper, stating: “It is what it is. I haven’t talked to him (Donnarumma) about it.”

Guardiola respects Silva

Fulham’s manager Marco Silva reached his 200th game in charge over the weekend as his team defeated Brentford 2-1. Guardiola was asked about Silva’s long tenure and also briefly updated on Rodri’s injury status before the upcoming match.

"Marco has been there for many years, their matches are always challenging. Their defensive organization is outstanding, and I feel they improve with the ball constantly. They are a very tough opponent. Against Chelsea, Arsenal, and in their recent game versus Sunderland, it is always extremely hard for opponents to break them down. It has always been the same in this great London stadium."

Regarding Rodri’s status, Pep simply said – "not yet."

The Spanish midfielder, a vital figure in Manchester City’s success, has only played one minute of football since mid-October.

Guardiola was brief and to the point in a press conference lasting just two minutes, which is unusual for the Spaniard who typically speaks more openly.

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