This is the classic double bluff trick, for those that believe they can actually control fate somehow...
"If I say we probably will win it, then we'll jinx it and everyone will take the piss. So lets say we might slip up instead"
Everyone should relax about old superstitions, as they only hold you back.
Just don't do what Liverpool fans do and mouth off like it's already done, before it's actually done. That's the only time piss taking is warranted.
The way I see it, both City and Liverpool should be beating their last two opponents and it's right to make them favourites to do so. So City are in the preferable position but that's all it is, as in, it's in their hands and very doable but they still have to go and do it.