Pep Guardiola has spoken ahead of Manchester City’s crucial clash with Arsenal this weekend, downplaying any talk of the title race. The City boss reminded reporters that it is only the fifth game of the season and said the focus should be on improving step by step. Guardiola noted that in several of City’s past title-winning seasons, they were behind rivals like Arsenal and Liverpool at Christmas, yet still went on to lift the Premier League trophy. For now, his priority is to see steady progress in performances rather than treating Sunday’s game as decisive.
The manager also gave an update on midfielder Rodri, who is returning from an ACL injury. While the Spanish international played strongly in midweek, Guardiola stressed the importance of monitoring his fitness carefully. Rodri himself is eager to feature, but Guardiola confirmed the final decision on whether he will play against Arsenal will depend on how he feels in training.
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Guardiola reflected on last season’s heavy defeat to Arsenal, admitting City lost control late in the game. He praised Mikel Arteta for building one of the strongest squads in Europe across recent transfer windows, describing Arsenal as one of the toughest opponents his side can face. Guardiola said his aim is not only to compete but also to show clear improvement from last year, particularly in how his team manages key moments.
In a lighter moment, Guardiola addressed ongoing criticism of City’s spending. He quipped that if Arsenal win the Premier League, pundits will say it is down to money rather than Arteta’s coaching or the players’ performances. Guardiola drew comparisons with Liverpool as well, noting that financial investment is often highlighted when City succeed but less so with others. He joked that his message to his “friend Mikel” is simple: if Arsenal do claim the title, people will say it is just because they spent, echoing the scrutiny City have faced for years.
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