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Guardiola praises Arsenal's resilience amid title race
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed admiration for Arsenal's Premier League campaign, calling their 22-year title drought a unique motivator as the two sides prepare for a pivotal clash this Sunday.
Arsenal's style under scrutiny
Arsenal, currently six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in a match that could shape the title race. Despite their success, Mikel Arteta's side has faced criticism for their reliance on set-pieces, with 37% of their 62 league goals this season coming from dead-ball situations. In their last five games, they have scored just two goals from open play.
Guardiola's perspective
When asked about watching Arsenal, Guardiola responded: "Yes. People are so demanding. From the media, supporters, everyone. I enjoy watching them. I learn a lot in many things."
"What people want is to win and we will fight. An aspect that is really, really important that we cannot fight against is [Arsenal going] 22 years without winning the Premier League. They have something that makes them unique. I know that."
Pep Guardiola
Guardiola acknowledged the psychological weight of Arsenal's long wait for a title, drawing parallels to City's own struggles before their first Premier League win under his management.
Title race dynamics
Arsenal's chances of winning the league dropped from 97% to 87% after a surprise home defeat to Bournemouth last weekend, while City capitalized by beating Chelsea. According to Opta, City's odds improved from 3% to 13%.
The two teams previously drew at the Emirates Stadium in September, but City hold a psychological edge after a 2-0 Carabao Cup final victory at Wembley last month.
Guardiola's cautious optimism
Guardiola warned that the title race would be "over" for City if they lose on Sunday, though he emphasized there is still "many things to do."
"It is six points. It is not a short distance but we have a chance to do it. That is the situation we are in. It depends on our behaviour and everything will be said on Sunday."
Pep Guardiola
He added that City's confidence remains high, despite earlier doubts about their title prospects. The match, which kicks off at 16:30 BST, will be played in front of a sold-out Etihad Stadium.
