Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has admitted it would be “difficult” for his team to qualify for the Champions League.

The Premier League champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Brighton on Saturday.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot, before Pervis Estupinan levelled with a stunning free-kick.

Omar Marmoush put City in front again, before an own goal from his team-mate Abdukodir Khusanov meant the teams had to settle for a point apiece.

The result leaves City sitting provisionally in fifth place with nine games to go.

“Until the end, I think so,” Guardiola told reporters. “Nine games, nine finals.

“I’m always confident. I am a master.

“I find the positiveness in everything. I know it will be difficult.”