Pep Guardiola conceded it would be a "big mistake" for Manchester City to think about retaining the Premier League title amid their four-game losing run in the competition.

City were handed their latest defeat by Liverpool on Sunday, losing 2-0 at Anfield to leave them 11 points adrift of Arne Slot's side at the summit of the standings. 

The Citizens return to the Etihad on Wednesday to take on Nottingham Forest, who returned to winning ways last weekend with a narrow 1-0 win over Ipswich Town. 

Guardiola's men may be in poor form, but they are unbeaten in their past eight league games against Forest, stretching back to a 3-2 loss in the second tier in December 1997.

However, when asked about his side's chances of winning a fifth consecutive Premier League crown, Guardiola remained realistic given recent results. 

"After the results in the past to think about a big target would be a big mistake," Guardiola conceded. 

"We need to beat a team close to us and take advantage to be closer to the top four. We are not far away from being the second team in the league, but it is all about consistency.

"Liverpool as a team have been magnificent, and you just have to fight and win games. Step by step we have to move forward again."

Despite enduring the longest winless run of his managerial career, Guardiola insisted that he was not feeling the pressure of the surrounding situation. 

After winning 18 trophies across his eight full seasons as City boss, he is determined to battle on with the help of the supporters. 

"The fans know what these guys have done over the last decade," he added. 

"They know we need the support, the players are human beings and will try everything to change the dynamic.

"We just have to play and think about the next one. I don't know another way. I don't feel sorry for myself."

Guardiola did, however, insist that his side would be a lot higher in the table if he had a fully fit squad to choose from. 

City have been without several players for much of the campaign, including long-term injury absentee Rodri, who is eyeing a return to action before the season is out. 

"With all the squad this season we would be close to our level we reached last season," Guardiola said. 

"In January we will talk internally as it depends on the situation we are in at that moment."

It was confirmed by Guardiola on Tuesday that John Stones would miss the visit of Nuno Espirito Santo's side, while Kevin De Bruyne is nearing full fitness.