Manager Josep Guardiola praised Manchester City's players, calling them “supermen'' as they continued their quest for a fourth consecutive league title by defeating Bournemouth.
City manager Guardiola praised his team for finding a way to victory against Brentford in midweek.
“I admire the players. They are supermen,” Guardiola told Sky Sports.
“They're very good. They're from where we've been playing every three days for many years.” [Bournemouth] The preparation period for the match was seven days, but it is usually shorter.
“We ask too much of our players, but they respond. I know people say, 'They make a lot of money,' but that's not true. [the schedule] Too many. Honestly.
“But business has to go on. I'm surprised every time why we're still there. They have incredible character, they're very competitive, and even when they're tired, However, I will go the extra mile.
“Our fans should be very proud of them.”
City struggled at times against Bournemouth en route to a second successive 1-0 win. beat brentford They remain top of the table with the same score on Tuesday and continue their bid to become the first team to win four consecutive titles in England's top flight.
Guardiola played in the FA Cup and Champions League, fielding a side that was in contention to win back-to-back trebles.
“The last 10-15 minutes were tough,” he said. “We've won the treble and people think we have to win every game 4-0, 5-0, but that's not reality. Hopefully soon we'll have a week off. I hope it will refresh your mind and feet.”
City travel to Luton for the FA Cup fifth round next Tuesday (20:00 GMT), followed by a local derby with Manchester United next weekend, followed by a Champions League last-16 tie with Copenhagen on March 6. The second match will be held.
It's a busy schedule, but defender John Stones says City can cope with it.
“We can grow under pressure,” Stones told Sky Sports.
“We're just focused on ourselves. Every game is a final for us. Right now their attack is strong and fast and we know we have to perform well.”