• Guardiola speaks the truth about Manchester City's dominance
• Ratcliffe aims to knock City off their perch
• United's acceptance of City's preeminent status is a step towards a fightback

Pep Guardiola has bluntly responded to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s aim to knock Manchester City “off their perch” by pointing out he speaks “the truth”. Ratcliffe completed his purchase of a 27.7 per cent in Manchester United this week and immediately set out his ambitions to restore the club to the top of the English and European game.

United have won just one trophy compared to City's 14 in the past six seasons, and Guardiola feels that Ratcliffe's acceptance of City's current preeminent status is an indication that they are ready for a fightback. While Guardiola expects United under Ratcliffes guidance will improve, he insisted it does not concern him as long as ManCity remains at its best.

Secondplaced city travels Bournemouth with hopes of closing gap on Liverpool while Kevin De Bruyne was held back due what manager described niggles but expressed confidence regarding player being available soon.