The Manchester City coach, Pep Guardiola, was forceful in the run-up to the key duel against Arsenal: a defeat could put an end to the fight for the Premier League.
“If we lose, yes, it’s over,” said Guardiola, aware of the importance of the clash against the leader, who is currently six points ahead.
A duel that can decide the title
Manchester City faces the match with the possibility of changing the course of the championship. With one game less, the “citizens” could take the lead if they beat Arsenal and then Burnley.
For its part, the team led by Mikel Arteta arrives at an irregular moment, with only one victory in its last five games, although it remains at the top of the table.
In addition, the “gunners” are coming off a significant loss after advancing to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Guardiola asks for calm and concentration
The Catalan coach warned his players about the pressure of the match: “It’s just a football match. If you get carried away by your emotions, you lose focus.”
Guardiola acknowledged that Arsenal have been the best team of the season, but insisted that City are ready to compete until the end.
Haaland sees it as a final
Striker Erling Haaland raised the tension even further by describing the match as decisive: “It’s like a final.”
The Norwegian highlighted that these types of matches are what mark the season and defined the clash as “the best match that can be played right now.”
Losses and news at City
Guardiola confirmed that Nico O’Reilly will be available after his recent knock, but captain Ruben Dias will remain sidelined.
The confrontation promises to be decisive in the final stretch of the Premier, with both teams risking a large part of their title aspirations.
