Pep Guardiola told BBC Sport that Manchester City couldn’t stop Leeds United players from running during their 2-1 defeat on Saturday.
Despite being down to ten men, after Liam Cooper’s reckless red card just before the break, Leeds walked away from the soon-to-champions with all three points.
Even losing Patrick Bamford didn’t have an impact on Marcelo Bielsa’s all-action Leeds outfit, who now sit in the top ten.
It’s been pretty evident all season, but not many can match Leeds United without the ball because of the sheer aggression and intelligence in which they run at.
And with Leeds having to defend with all their might yesterday, given the circumstances, Guardiola suggested that his team simply couldn’t cope.
“We played a real good game,” said Guardiola. “The goal we gave them, in behind, we were solid and make mistakes for a counter-attack.
“We did not control it. We did not create enough for the forwards. It is part of the game.
“In the last 10 minutes, they had other chances, they are fast and they can do it. So, when we play in that way, it’s to be patient because outside is not possible. The cross is difficult because we are not good headers and they are strong.
“When they defend in the way they were you have to stop them running and we let them run – because the transition of the team is a fantastic transition.
Leeds are one of the most dangerous outfits in the Premier League heading into the final few weeks.
They have a style of play that is a nightmare to most on a good day, they don’t get affected by player injuries, early subs or heavy defeats.
And with their survival in the bag, they are going to attack teams with more will, freedom and aggression than ever before.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
