Pep Guardiola labels Man City vs Arsenal showdown a ‘final’ | Football

Advertisement

Pep Guardiola’s side host Arsenal after the international break (Picture: Getty)

Pep Guardiola has labelled Manchester City’s upcoming Premier League clash against title rivals Arsenal at the Etihad on March 31 as a ‘final’.

Both sides are locked in a tense title race along with fellow challengers Liverpool with just 10 top-flight fixtures remaining.

Arsenal currently sit top of the table on 64 points – ahead of second-placed Liverpool on goal difference – while City find themselves third on 63 points.

City have lifted five of the last six Premier League trophies and Arsenal pushed them all the way last term before a late capitulation saw the Gunners miss out.

Arsenal beat City on penalties to lift the Community Shield in August and also defeated Guardiola’s side 1-0 when they met at the Emirates in October.

Advertisement

But Arsenal lost 4-1 when they last played at the Etihad in April and Guardiola will be hoping his side can produce another win in front of their home fans.

‘We have a final against Arsenal,’ Guardiola said when quizzed about the upcoming showdown.

Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 - Second Leg - Arsenal v FC Porto - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - March 12, 2024 Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after the match Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers

Mikel Arteta’s side have beaten Man City twice this season (Picture: Getty)

‘But for now we rest. I don’t want to think about the future – it has been such an intense period.

‘With the players [going on international duty] a change of environment is good, some of them will be allowed to see their families.

‘When we come back, we have three days to prepare for the game against Arsenal. Let’s go.’


MORE : Erik ten Hag still angry over Arsenal’s win against Man Utd in September


MORE : Liverpool fans throw flare into disabled section at Old Trafford while arrest is made over sickening tragedy chanting


MORE : Erik ten Hag admits Man Utd star deserves more playing time after FA Cup heroics against Liverpool

General Sport

Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com