Guardiola plays down favorite tag

BRIGHTON, England - Pep Guardiola said Manchester City will not get carried away after a 2-0 opening-weekend victory at promoted Brighton as he is still stung by the bitter experiences of last season.

A year ago City won its first 10 games in all competitions, beginning with a victory at home to Sunderland, yet finished the campaign empty-handed.

"Last season we were favorites too," said Guardiola. "I sat here after the Sunderland game and you said: 'You are the favorites, you are the most beautiful, the most handsome, and nicest guys in the league.' And you know what happened? After that, Chelsea killed us.