I learn a lot, enjoy watching Arsenal play — Guardiola

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Ahead of the crucial top-of-the-table Premier League clash with Arsenal on Sunday, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Mikel Arteta’s men, saying he enjoys watching Arsenal play as he can “learn a lot” from them.

Asked if he enjoyed watching Arsenal in action, Guardiola said: “Yes. People are so demanding. From the media, supporters, everyone. I enjoy watching them. I learn a lot in many things.

“What people want is to win and we will fight. An aspect that is really, really important that we cannot fight against is (Arsenal going) 22 years without winning the Premier League. They have something that makes them unique. I know that.”

He continued, “I knew that feeling when we arrived here. For a long time, we didn’t win the Premier League. Manuel (Pellegrini) and (Roberto) Mancini did it but for our era, I would say, I know how you feel about that first win.

“That is something that we cannot play against; that is why we have to focus on the way we have to play.”

The two sides drew at Emirates Stadium last September, but Manchester City go into this game with a psychological advantage after beating Arsenal 2-0 at Wembley Stadium to win the Carabao Cup last month.

Guardiola hinted the title race is “over” with six games to play for City if they lose on Sunday, but there are still “many things to do”.

Mikel Arteta was Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City before taking over at Arsenal in 2019.

Despite being in contention for a Premier League and Champions League double, Arsenal’s style of play under Arteta has been increasingly criticised, having scored 37% of their 62 league goals from set-pieces this season and just two goals from open play in their last five games.

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