Pep Guardiola has warned that Manchester City must prepare for a difficult evening at Craven Cottage, with the manager full of admiration for the work done by Marco Silva at Fulham.
City travel to west London on Tuesday evening for a 7.30pm kick-off, knowing victory would reduce the gap at the top of the Premier League to two points, at least temporarily.
Fulham arrive in good form after their 2-1 win at Tottenham and have lost just once at home this season, a run which Guardiola says reflects the progress made under Silva.
“Marco has been there for many years and it has always been a very difficult game,” Guardiola said in his pre-match press conference.
“[It will be] difficult. The organization is exceptional and each year with the ball they are even better.
“They’re a tough, tough opponent, I’ve seen their games against Chelsea, Arsenal and Sunderland and it’s always so difficult for the opponent to break them down. It’s always been in this beautiful stadium in London.”
Guardiola confirmed Rodri would miss the trip and remains unsure whether the midfielder could return in time for Saturday’s encounter with Sunderland.
He also noted disciplinary issues for Bernardo Silva and Gianluigi Donnarumma, who are each one warning away from suspension.
The goalkeeper was shown a yellow card in the 3-2 win over Leeds, prompting Guardiola to shrug at his rising tally.
“Yes, he has a lot. He has a lot. That’s what it is,” he said.
