Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said he expects Arsenal and Liverpool to remain strong contenders in the Premier League title race — but believes both sides will eventually “drop points.”

Speaking after City’s 3-2 defeat to Brentford on Saturday, Guardiola stressed the importance of his side staying focused and ready to capitalize when rivals slip up.

“I have that feeling with Arsenal, with Liverpool as well,” Guardiola said. “I always had the feeling that both teams — and maybe another one — will lose a few points. That’s why we have to be there.”

Arsenal currently sit atop the table, three points clear before their home fixture against Crystal Palace on Sunday. Mikel Arteta’s men have been in excellent form, winning six straight matches and conceding just once in that run.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have dropped to sixth following the weekend’s results but remain within striking distance of the leaders as the title race heats up.

In League One, Reading FC confirmed the dismissal of manager Noel Hunt after a poor start to the season. The Royals are 19th on the table, with only three wins from 14 matches, and sit just two points above the relegation zone following a 1-1 draw with Doncaster Rovers.

Hunt, 42, who previously served as caretaker manager before being appointed permanently in December 2024, made 145 league appearances for Reading as a player during his five-year stint at the club.

Club chairman Rob Couhig described the decision to part ways with Hunt as “difficult,” acknowledging the manager’s contributions while citing the need for better results.

“Noel Hunt is far more than just a former manager of this football club; he is part of the fabric of Reading FC,” Couhig said in an official statement. “He fought for this badge and gave everything for the club.”

Reading have begun the search for a new manager to steady their campaign and steer them away from the relegation zone.