Pep Guardiola details key change fans have made that's helping Man City win games

Pep Guardiola thanked Manchester City fans for bringing more noise than ever before as he looks to turn the Etihad into a fortress.

The City boss has already told supporters his side could not have won the Premier League last season without the support of the home crowd when it was needed most on the final day, but has been impressed with what he has heard and felt in the opening two fixtures of the new campaign. Bernardo Silva was given a terrific reception in the 4-0 win over Bournemouth amid uncertainty over his future at the club, before the fans helps City to overcome a 2-0 deficit in thrilling fashion against Crystal Palace.

Guardiola made sure his players applauded the stands after the final whistle on Saturday and says the squad have noticed that the atmosphere is much better this season - particularly compared to his early years at the Etihad. With City again set for a highly competitive battle for the title, the manager is hopeful that the supporters can help ensure they have as much home advantage as possible going forward.

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"It has changed compared to previous seasons and definitely my first seasons here. The noise is louder, they are closer, it is always full, and it is a joy to play in the Etihad right now," he said.

"It is much better. The way we want to try to play encourages [the fans] to be close to us. In the bad moments in the game they are always there.

"Aston Villa [last season] was completely different because we played for the Premier League but when we scored the first goal against Palace we felt they were there - the noise and everything - and that is so important for the opponents and for ourselves.

"When that happens and