John Stones scored an equalizer for the host team in the final minute of stoppage time, as Manchester City and Arsenal played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium.
On Sunday, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed his frustration with Arsenal players succumbing to cramps as the Gunners endeavored to preserve their lead at the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal’s resistance was eventually overcome when John Stones scored an equalizer for City in the final minutes of stoppage time. After Leandro Trossard was dismissed for a second yellow card in the first half’s stoppage time, Mikel Arteta’s side played the entire second half with ten men.
Martin Odegaard was absent for Arsenal, while Kevin De Bruyne was declared ineligible for City prior to the match. Rodri, a Spanish midfielder, sustained an injury that appeared to be concerning during the first half, which resulted in his departure from Guardiola’s team.
In an effort to ascertain the severity of Rodri’s injury, Guardiola stated that he had yet to consult with the club’s specialist. Nevertheless, he had a lot to say about the tactics of the opposition, seemingly criticizing his opponent, Mikel Arteta.
Guardiola stated to Sky Sports, “I am unaware of the exact number of Arsenal players who were incapacitated by cramps; however, it is a common occurrence in a physically demanding match.” The total of seven minutes of stoppage time was increased by referee Michael Oliver after Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber was forced to leave the game due to cramps during that period. Stones’ strike was scored in the eighth extra minute.
“We crossed and crossed and had Ruben [Dias], Manuel [Akanji], Erling [Haaland] but when you cross they have Declan Rice, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori, so it is so difficult,” Guardiola stated further. “There were ten players present.” Ultimately, we received what was due to us.
When queried about Arsenal’s purported time-wasting, Guardiola responded, “Maybe I would have done the same because it is with ten men.” “You must inquire about the strategy from Mikel [Arteta].” They were proficient in hitting long balls into Kai Havertz, who is exceptionally powerful, and they opted to pursue the second ball. Finally, we were able to achieve the objective by remaining patient and taking advantage of the opportunities that presented themselves. That concludes the matter.
For his part, Arteta commended the manner in which his team responded to losing a player. Despite the fact that both teams are still unblemished, the equalizer ensures that City will conclude the weekend as the top team in the Premier League, rather than Arsenal.
“I am extremely proud of the team.” The game was played in a challenging environment. Arsenal’s manager stated on Match of the Day, “We are playing against the best team in the world.”
It was a different story after what occurred, and I prefer not to make any remark about that [Leandro Trossard’s red card]. We went 2-1 up.
“Undoubtedly, it is a miracle that we were able to play 56 minutes at the Etihad Stadium with only 10 players.” What we have accomplished is truly remarkable.
