Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a strong challenge to Premier League leaders Arsenal as the English top-flight competition resumes this weekend. The Spanish tactician believes his team is ready to mount serious pressure on the Gunners in what promises to be an intense title race.
Title Race Intensifies After International Break
The Citizens currently occupy second position on the Premier League table, trailing league leaders Arsenal by four crucial points. Guardiola's men secured an impressive 3-0 victory over Liverpool before the international break, while Arsenal managed a 2-2 draw against Sunderland.
According to Metro UK, Guardiola acknowledged Arsenal's strength but insisted his team would no longer drop points in the coming matches. "I must admit that Arsenal were strong last season and not just this season, so impeccable in so many, many things," the former Barcelona coach stated.
Guardiola Divides Season Into Two Crucial Phases
The decorated manager explained his perspective on the Premier League calendar, highlighting two distinct parts of the season. "There are two parts of the season, when the transfer window is over in the summer and after the international break is over," Guardiola elaborated.
He emphasized the importance of the current phase, stating: "Now the real season starts. It's important to be there and arrive at the end of the season with the feeling we can fight."
Manchester City will face Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, November 22, while Arsenal take on Tottenham the following day. Historical statistics favor the Citizens, who have lost only one match in their last 35 meetings against Newcastle.
Haaland Returns After World Cup Qualification Success
Manchester City will be boosted by the return of star striker Erling Haaland, who recently guided Norway to their first World Cup qualification since 1998. Guardiola praised the Norwegian's incredible achievement for both club and country.
"I'm happy for him and his national team. I read yesterday that many of the squad for Norway were not even born the last time Norway were in the World Cup," Guardiola told ESPN. "He's breaking a lot of personal, individual records. For the country, it's incredible. As a football player, a world-class player, he deserves to play a World Cup."
As the Premier League action resumes, all eyes will be on whether Manchester City can close the gap on Arsenal and whether Guardiola's strong message will translate into results on the pitch.
