Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says his team cannot afford another defensive meltdown when they face Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday, as the Premier League title race heats up.
The City boss is determined to avoid a repeat of February’s 5-1 humiliation by the Gunners, which he described as “under-14s defending.” Guardiola’s men, who trail both Arsenal and reigning champions Liverpool, need a strong performance to stay in contention.
City endured a shaky start to the season, losing two of their first three matches against Tottenham and Brighton. However, they have regained momentum with emphatic victories over Manchester United and Napoli in the Champions League.
Reflecting on their last trip to north London, Guardiola recalled: “Last season we started like an under-14s team and gave away countless goals. For long periods we played well, but the final 15–20 minutes were a disaster. We forgot what we had to do and Arsenal punished us. This time, we must be better.”
Guardiola also took a swipe at critics who claim his six Premier League titles were simply the product of City’s financial strength. With a hint of sarcasm, he said: “If my friend Mikel Arteta wins the title, it will be because he spent money, right? Same with Liverpool and Arne Slot, if they win again, it will be because of spending. It’s not just Man City that spend.”
Arteta, who left his role as Guardiola’s assistant in 2019, has rebuilt Arsenal into a formidable force, though his only silverware remains the 2020 FA Cup. The Gunners have finished second in the league for the past three seasons and impressed in Europe last term.
“He found the club in a certain state and, step by step, window by window, Arsenal has grown stronger,” Guardiola acknowledged. “Last season in Europe they took an incredible step forward. For me, they are now the most solid team, they rarely make mistakes at the back.”
City begin the weekend three points behind Arsenal and six behind leaders Liverpool. Their task is complicated by a tighter schedule: they played their Champions League opener just 48 hours after Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Athletic Bilbao.
Guardiola admitted managing fatigue will be key, especially for Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who is returning from a major knee injury. “With him on the pitch we feel more comfortable,” he said. “But after such a tough injury, we have to be cautious. We’ll decide on Sunday how he feels.”