Pep Guardiola has warned his players that they face a real battle when Manchester City travel to the Stadium of Light on Sunday (KO 4pm).
The Citizens enter the fixture on a high having sealed a memorable 5-3 victory over Monaco last week before crushing Huddersfield Town in a win 5-1 on Wednesday.
On opening day, Guardiola ensured he started his Premier League journey with a win as a late Paddy McNair own goal downed the Black Cats.
And speaking ahead of Sunday’s match-up, the Spaniard urged his side to push on and do what many of their rivals couldn’t – win at the Stadium of Light.
“During the season, we have had some good moments, some not so good,” said Guardiola.
“We are in a good moment now but we have to repeat it in every single game again and again.
“It’s far away from the first game in the Premier League,” continued Guardiola. “It’s a New game – Tottenham and Liverpool were not able to win in Sunderland.
“Every game will be a final, not just for the title contenders, but for the teams playing for Champions League qualification, Europa League, relegation.
“Every game will be tough until the end of the season.”