Pep Guardiola has conceded that Manchester City’s Premier League title hopes would be over if they lose to Arsenal in Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash at the Etihad Stadium. The City manager acknowledged the magnitude of the fixture, saying: “Obviously, if we lose it’s over. But there is still games to play. The reality is there are seven games left for us in the Premier League and that is the decisive moment.”
Arsenal’s lead at the summit was trimmed to six points last weekend after their surprise home defeat to Bournemouth, while City cruised to victory at Chelsea. Crucially, Guardiola’s side also hold a game in hand. City have lost only once in 15 league matches at home this season, but Guardiola stressed the challenge posed by an Arsenal team that has reached the Champions League semi-finals without a single defeat.
Guardiola confirmed that defender Ruben Dias remains unavailable, but Nico O’Reilly, who limped off with a hamstring issue at Stamford Bridge, has been declared fit. O’Reilly scored twice in City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup final triumph over Arsenal last month, a result that ended the Gunners’ quadruple bid. Guardiola, though, expects a different test on Sunday, saying: “I know Mikel a little, they are going to adjust something and we have to be prepared.”
The City boss also highlighted the unique motivation driving Arsenal, who are seeking their first top-flight title since the 2003-04 season. “An aspect that is really, really important that we cannot fight against is 22 years without winning the Premier League,” he said. “They have something that makes them unique. I knew that feeling when we arrived here. I know how you feel that first win. That is something that we cannot play against.”
Guardiola dismissed criticism of Arsenal’s perceived pragmatism and reliance on set-pieces, remarking: “People are so demanding. From the media, supporters, everyone. I enjoy watching them. I learn a lot in many things.” He added: “Last season Liverpool were incredible but the previous one and this season, Arsenal have been the biggest contender.”
