Pep Guardiola is asked his views about Newcastle United and Steve Bruce - here's his reply
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is eager to put last season's 2-1 loss behind him
by Lee RyderPep Guardiola has backed Newcastle United to survive in the Premier League again this season - and he feels that Manchester City's visit to St James' Park will be just as tough as last term under Rafa Benitez.
The Barcelona legend watched on last term as City were beaten 2-1 on Tyneside in one of the biggest shocks of the top-flight season.
Now he is expecting another difficult test as the prepared to take on Steve Bruce's side.
Guardiola said at his Press conference to preview the game: "It's tough with a new manager but they have good results.
"I think they will stay in the Premier League.
"They are physically strong, fast up front.
"Their structure is quite similar to under Rafa Benitez."
United slipped 1-0 behind against City last term before goals from Salomon Rondon and Matt Ritchie clinched a big win.
Guardiola reflected: "We forgot to play (last season).
"We scored a goal and forgot to attack. We learned from that, obviously, but we had a bad, bad day.
"Everybody understood that and we make a step forward."
City still went on to win the title last season despite the defeat against Benitez's side.
He said: "After that, we tried to be who we are.
"At that moment, I wasn't thinking about winning the Premier League or winning 14 games in a row.
"That would be a big mistake."