"We have to do it. We can recover, but I don't think in the first season we will be able to recover 30 points.
"In the Premier League, there is a team above the others. This team is Manchester City."
The top three - City, Chelsea and Liverpool - remain unbeaten this season, but Sarri believes his closest competitors are a level above the rest of the 'Big Six'.
"Then there is a very good team - Liverpool," the Italian manager added.
Chelsea news: Maurizio Sarri admits Man City are a level above (Image: Getty)
Gabriel Jesus sealed Manchester City 100 points with a last-minute goal on the final day of 17/18 (Image: Getty)
In the Premier League, there is a team above the others. This team is Manchester City.
Maurizio Sarri
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
"For sure Liverpool will be in the first four positions.
"Then there is four or five teams who will have to fight for the Champions League positions. Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, [Manchester] United."
The Blues face London rivals Tottenham, who trail them by one point, on Saturday evening.
Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said last month he had never been so unhappy as Tottenham manager despite the best start to a season in his tenure.