Pep Guardiola has backed Newcastle to compete for the Premier League title this season, if Eddie Howe’s side can handle the added demands of European football.
Manchester City take on Newcastle in the Premier League this weekend with both sides having made impressive starts to the new season.
Guardiola’s side won 3-0 at Burnley last Friday evening, but were soon replaced at the top of the division by Newcastle, who thrashed Aston Villa 5-1 at St James’ Park.
Newcastle will compete in the Champions League for the first time since 2002/03 this season after a top four finish in the Premier League last term, and Guardiola believes the visit of the Magpies will be a ‘massive test’ for his side.
“They are a Champions League team. If you are in there, you are a really good team,” he told his pre-match press conference.
“In a short time, since the takeover, I get the feeling they are going to be there for a long, long time.
“Eddie Howe has created a fantastic team in possession, transition and build-up, set pieces. They control everything; it’ll be a massive test for us but we are there for that.”
Guardiola believes Newcastle could compete for the Premier League title this season, if Howe’s squad adapt to the demands of continental competition.
“Playing three times a week is different to once a week; if they can handle the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup, they are contenders.”
