Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Pep Guardiola as “the most exceptional coach globally” as the intimate friends gear up for a potentially momentous match in the Premier League title race this weekend.
Manchester City will face their title contenders at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, having emerged victorious in the last seven encounters held at their home ground.
Arsenal achieved a seldom-seen triumph over City in the last match at the Emirates Stadium this season, placing them at the top of the league ahead of Liverpool by virtue of goal difference. Guardiola’s reigning champions are one point behind.
Arteta, who worked under Guardiola at City from 2016 to 2019, is a good friend of the two Spaniards and contributed to two Premier League title victories.
However, this time they will find themselves in opposing dugouts once more as Arteta gets ready to compete against a manager whom he considers to be unparalleled.
When questioned about the current state of his connection with Guardiola, Arteta responded by stating that it was necessary for the relationship to undergo a transformation.
“My admiration and affection for him remains unchanged.” In my perspective, he surpasses all other coaches in the world by a significant margin, and he is among the most amiable individuals I have encountered in the realm of football.
“Undoubtedly, he is among the individuals with whom I have experienced the greatest enjoyment and amusement while working.” That will remain there indefinitely.
“Currently, the rules remain unchanged and it is necessary for you to adjust accordingly.”
After competing for the title last season, with City ultimately surpassing Arsenal to win the trophy and achieve the triple, Arteta is determined to improve upon that performance this year.
“Ideally, I would prefer to engage in this activity with someone towards whom I do not possess such emotions. However, unfortunately, I do not have the luxury of making that choice,” he further stated.
“It is what it is.” Both of us have a desire to be victorious.
“We will thoroughly prepare the game.” One’s personal feelings towards a person may not change, but it is necessary to behave in a distinct manner in a professional setting.
Arteta has indicated that forwards Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, who were absent during the international break due to minor ailments, may be included in the upcoming match. Additionally, Gabriel Magalhaes is anticipated to be sufficiently recovered to begin the game.
Arsenal faces the challenge of not only breaking a nine-year streak without a league victory against City, but also of emulating their opponents by establishing themselves as a prominent force in European football.
“City’s success has elevated the standards in this league and in football as a whole to unprecedented levels,” he remarked.
“The inherent allure of this sport lies in its ability to enhance one’s skills and present greater challenges.” You must maintain the same speed, and that is precisely what we are attempting to accomplish.
“This game holds great significance for both teams.” Winning there will provide us with a significant advantage once more. However, there is still a considerable distance to cover in order to achieve victory.
