Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has conceded that Arsenal currently holds the upper hand in the Premier League title race following their 2- 1 Premier League encounter.
Speaking after the match, Guardiola advised his team to enjoy the moment while concerning the reality of the standings. “The reality is: who is top of the league? We are not. Goal difference, who is better? They are,” he said. He emphasized a step-by-step approach, adding that City retain hope of extending their title challenge until the final stages of the season.
Guardiola described his side as “alive” in the race but dismissed any concept of enjoyment. “Enjoying? I don’t think it's the right word. It’s fine,” he stated. “Hope. That game gives us hope. That’s all.” The comments came after a hard-fought match at the Etihad Stadium where Arsenal demonstrated strong defensive organization and clinical play, leaving City trailing in the table.
The City boss also paid tribute to Arsenal’s defensive duo, William Saliba and Gabriel, alongside Erling Haaland’s challenge. “I would not like to be Haaland and battle against Gabriel and Saliba. I prefer to read a book,” Guardiola remarked.