Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hailed Arsenal’s style of play, admitting he enjoys watching the Gunners and continues to learn from Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster title showdown.
Arsenal travel to the Etihad Stadium sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League, knowing a positive result could edge them closer to a historic first league title in over 20 years.
Despite recent criticism of Arsenal’s playing style, Guardiola was full of praise for the league leaders.
“Yes, I enjoy watching them,” Guardiola said. “People are so demanding – media, supporters, everyone. But I learn a lot from them in many aspects.”
Arsenal have faced scrutiny for their reliance on set-pieces, with 37% of their 62 league goals coming from dead-ball situations. They have also scored just twice from open play in their last five matches.
However, Guardiola believes their hunger to end a 22-year title drought gives them a unique edge.
“What people want is to win, and they will fight,” he added. “That feeling of going so long without winning the Premier League makes them special. I understand that.”
The stakes could not be higher heading into Sunday’s clash (16:30 BST), with Guardiola admitting defeat would effectively end City’s title hopes.
“It is over if we lose,” he said. “There are still many things to do, but this game will define everything.”
Arsenal’s shock defeat to Bournemouth last weekend reopened the title race, with City capitalising through a statement win at Chelsea.
According to Opta, Arsenal’s title probability dropped from 97% to 87%, while City’s chances rose from 3% to 13%.
City head into the contest with momentum and a psychological boost, having beaten Arsenal 2-0 in last month’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley. The sides also drew earlier this season at the Emirates.
Guardiola insists his side is ready for the challenge but remains cautious of Arsenal’s quality.
“We are ready. A month ago, I didn’t think we would be in this position,” he said. “It’s a six-point gap – not small, but we have a chance.”
“We respect them a lot, but it’s about how we approach the game tactically and mentally. That’s what matters.”
With a sold-out Etihad and the title race hanging in the balance, Sunday’s clash promises to be one of the defining moments of the Premier League season.
