'We're just like Barca in their prime'

The 'Citizens' have started the season in fine form, having won 14 of their 16 games in all competitions so far and currently lead the way in the Premier League with ten games played having yet to lose a game.

Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan came head-to-head with Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich side during his spell in Germany with Borussia Dortmund and whilst he says there are similarities between that Bayern side and City, he believes that the Barca side that dominated European football under Guardiola's stewardship is a better point of comparison.

'The way we play, the way we dominate opponents, it feels special and feels like it could be a very special season. The domination is like Bayern, yes, but it's a different kind of game,' explained the 27-year-old.

'The way we build up, with the quick short passes, feels a bit different from ­Bayern for me, or Real Madrid.

'Maybe the most similar team would be Barcelona at their best with Pep.

'I wouldn't say we are at their best yet but they were one of the best because of the way they dominated teams — and we are doing so now. I'm not sure if we are there yet. We still need to prove that in every game, every competition. We need to prove that with trophies.'

City failed to win anything last season during Guardiola's first season at the helm but Gundogan believes that the 'Sky Blues' are better postitioned to challenge this season and to entertain the fans along the way.

'Look at the way we play, the way we keep the ball, pass the ball, those short, quick passes, especially in midfield,' he said.

'We attack with a lot of players, create a lot of chances and score a lot of goals, we are going in the right way. This makes it fun for everyone, for us and for the supporters. People like to watch us.'

'We have a good and deep squad and I feel every single player is able to hold it on a good level. We feel ready.'