Premier League 2018-19 review

Clock ticking for City core

Pep's biggest challenge is finding successors to Kompany, Silva, Fernandinho and Aguero

Manager Pep Guardiola lifting the trophy after Manchester City became Premier League champions with a 4-1 victory at Brighton on Sunday. It was the first time a team have retained the Premier League title since Manchester United in 2009.
Manager Pep Guardiola lifting the trophy after Manchester City became Premier League champions with a 4-1 victory at Brighton on Sunday. It was the first time a team have retained the Premier League title since Manchester United in 2009. PHOTO: REUTERS
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Perhaps the ominous element for Manchester City's rivals came before their 14th consecutive win on Sunday that took their tally to 98 points and secured a second successive Premier League title.

It came not from the class of their players, but the words of their manager. "Next season, we will be stronger," said Pep Guardiola on Friday. "I am sure."

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 14, 2019, with the headline Clock ticking for City core. Subscribe