Guardiola reveals the secret behind Man City's incredible defensive record

The Citizens boast the league’s best defensive record on only 13 goals conceded in 21 games so far this season.

Pep Guardiola revealed the main reason behind Manchester City’s impeccable defense is down to their tendency to dominate possession in games.

A key factor behind a club-record run of 13 consecutive wins in all competitions has been City’s improved defensive displays, having kept 21 clean sheets this season.

One reason that has been highlighted frequently has been summer signing Ruben Dias’ impact. But while the Portuguese has indeed been outstanding, Guardiola reckons his side’s ability to hold the lion’s share of possession is key.

“The reason why [our defensive record is so good] is because 67 percent of the time we have the ball,” the City manager told Sky Sports.

“This is the main reason. The main reason is that we have the ball. If you have the ball as much as possible then the opponent does not have the ball.

“Of course, the opponent can score from set pieces or a counter-attack but the more that you have the ball the more chances you will have to score a goal. This is the reason why.

“Maybe one day they will change the rules but I think to score a goal you need the ball.

“You cannot win titles, especially the Premier League and the Bundesliga, if you concede a lot of goals. Last season we conceded more than usual and we didn’t adjust well to some things. But if you look at the goals that we conceded in all of our years here in Manchester, in Munich, in Barcelona, it was always few. Few, few, few.

“And we did it playing 50 or 60 meters in front of our goal, and always we were stable defensively. Absolutely, I do not want to concede goals. And I want to score a lot. That is what we are working for with good quality players who want to have the ball.”