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Pep Guardiola’s focus turned immediately to the Premier League and challenging Liverpool for the title in the wake of Manchester City’s Club World Cup exit.

The Blues suffered a shock 4-3 loss to Al-Hilal in the last-16 stage of a tournament many had billed as the beginning of City’s return to the top table.

Speaking after the game, Guardiola said he is already beginning to think about the new season, and attempting to regain its Premier League crown from Liverpool.

“It is a pity,” he said.

It was a frustrating night for the Manchester City manager.

Al-Hilal's win over Manchester City is a significant moment in Saudi Arabian soccer

What exactly that means for preseason preparations is unclear, especially given most Premier League sides return to training next week.

Asked whether he thinks the early exit will help City this season, Guardiola replied: “It is too early to say

Now it is tough but we come back in the next days, rest, and start the Premier League.”


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