Pep Guardiola accepted a point as Man City lost ground to Arsenal in the Premier League title race after being held to a goalless draw by Sunderland on Thursday night.
City failed to score as their eight-match winning streak came to an end at the Stadium of Light, while the Black Cats maintained their unbeaten home record in the top flight this season.
The result means Arsenal have extended their lead at the top of the table to four points after beating Aston Villa 4-1 on Tuesday evening.
Guardiola philosophical as Man City lose ground to Arsenal
Asked what he made of the game, Guardiola told Sky Sports: “Good. Take the point. Second half was excellent. We missed. We could not score in the six-yard box.
“How many times we were in the six-yard box against the keeper or the other one and could not convert. Of course, the threat they have, they are really good. Really pleased with the performances, especially in the second half.
“We create a lot against that team in this stadium, especially in the second half. The first half, we struggled simply because we struggled against their pressing but Rodri gave us the second pass, to break the lines, and we could run. Second half was much better.
“They are so physical. They’re so strong, so it’s not a surprise at that. We take the point. [It’s] a long way.
“The result is always what it is.”
Man City are back in action this Sunday when they welcome Chelsea to the Etihad Stadium.
