Pep Guardiola has a pop at Arsenal as he issues BIZARRE response when asked what more Man City could have done to break down their defence after stalemate left Liverpool top
- Man City missed out on top spot in the Premier League after a draw against Arsenal
- Pep Guardiola has admitted the champions need their rivals to drop points
- Why Roberto De Zerbi should be in the running to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool – Listen to the It all starts podcast
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claimed only one team wanted to enjoy themselves in Sunday’s thrilling title clash as Arsenal left with a precious point.
Liverpool were the big winners after coming from behind to beat Brighton, before City were later left frustrated by the Gunners in a tough goalless draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola praised Mikel Arteta’s positioning but consistently referred to the numbers Arsenal deployed in defensive areas and how deep they sat to get a result.
“I recognized my team, I am so proud,” Guardiola said. ‘Arsenal dropped very well (deep). It was difficult to find (passes) in the tight spaces. The low block was very difficult.
‘Our intention was there. They defended so well in the low block with a lot of people around Erling (Haaland). Be patient and find the pass.
Pep Guardiola said only one team planned to entertain in Manchester City’s draw against Arsenal
Erling Haaland was kept quiet at the Etihad as City missed out on top spot in the Premier League
Guardiola praised Arsenal’s low block and stressed he was proud of his team’s efforts
‘There are different ways to do it. They did well in the presser and then after the block. No matter how many players you defend with, the main goal is not to concede. I only have control over my team and I don’t know the rest.’
When asked how to break through a stubborn defense line, Guardiola replied: ‘Kill someone? Playing with nine?’
City have managed just four points in games against the top five, compared to 16 points last season, and Guardiola admitted they are reliant on favors from elsewhere in the hunt for a fourth straight title.
No stranger to frantic clashes, the Catalan defended his side by suggesting critics have short memories.
“You’re acting like it’s been 7-0 every week for the last six years,” he added.
‘Because we won five out of six, you (think we) have to win by being ten points ahead. That’s not possible because they are really good, Jurgen (Klopp) and Mikel with their teams are exceptional. As a team we are still there.’
