Pep Guardiola discusses Manchester City’s matchup against Arsenal: ‘A loss would mean it’s finished’
Pep Guardiola has stated that the title race will be “over” if Manchester City suffers a defeat against Arsenal this weekend.
The top two teams in the Premier League will clash at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday in what has been described as a potential title decider.
Guardiola, whose squad will start the match six points behind with a game in hand, indicated that Arsenal will secure the championship if they emerge victorious.
“If we lose, it’s over,” Guardiola remarked.
“They are exceptionally strong in every area. In duels and physicality, if you allow them to establish a good rhythm by not being aggressive, they can build up effectively.”
“[David] Raya is outstanding. There’s no need to discuss set-pieces.”
“That is why they are where they are. At the top of the Premier League throughout the season, and that is why I take pride in being there and competing against them.”
A win for City would bring Guardiola’s side within three points of Arsenal. They could ascend to the top if they defeat Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday.
However, even if Arsenal loses on Sunday, Guardiola maintains that City will not automatically be the favorites to claim the trophy due to their “terrible” schedule leading up to the season’s conclusion.
“Our schedule is challenging with Everton away, Bournemouth away, and Aston Villa at home for the final match,” Guardiola noted.
“We also have Burnley, Crystal Palace, and Brentford at home. Crystal Palace and Aston Villa are in Europe, so there are still many challenges ahead.”
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Guardiola has received a boost ahead of the match against Arsenal with Nico O’Reilly expected to be available after recovering from a hamstring injury.
O’Reilly was pivotal in the Carabao Cup final, netting both goals in the 2-0 victory over Mikel Arteta’s team.
However, Guardiola anticipates that his former assistant will adjust his strategy to prevent a repeat of the outcome at Wembley.
“If we perform as we did for 95 minutes [as at Wembley] and they replicate their approach, we will win,” Guardiola stated.
“But football is unpredictable. I know Mikel somewhat; they will make some adjustments, and we must be ready.”
