“We cannot afford to lose anymore games”- Manuel Pellegrini

Manuel Pellegrini pointing the way forward for his City troops

Manchester City need to win all of their remaining Premier League games in 2014 if they are to stay in the title race, says manager Manuel Pellegrini.

City trail solid leaders Chelsea by eight points after 11 league games.

"We have 24 more points to try to win (in 2014)," said Pellegrini. "We have to try to do it, I think that is the only way.

"I think December and this week of November are a decisive month for the Premier League.

City, who face Swansea at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, have already dropped 12 points this season and sit third in the table. 

At this same stage last season, City embarked on a 20-game unbeaten run in all competitions, winning 18 of them - a run that ultimately helped them lift the Premier League trophy.

"We are going to finish the first round (of fixtures) at the end of December," added Pellegrini.

"I think maybe not to be top of the table, because Chelsea are in a very good moment, but I think it is important to have a good first round. That is to earn more than 41 or 42 points.