Pep Guardiola responds to Mikel Arteta’s scathing remarks about Manchester City and declares ‘WAR’ on Arsenal after their tense 2-2 draw as the Etihad crisis escalates.
Pep Guardiola has called on Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta to clarify barbed comments he made towards Manchester City in the wake of last weekend’s ill-tempered draw at the Etihad.
The competitors for the Premier League title are still at odds, and Guardiola is said to feel betrayed by nebulous charges made by his former assistant manager.
Arteta was clearly upset by claims that his squad used ‘black arts’ as they defended their lead with 10 men at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola messaged Arteta following the match but was caught aback by the Arsenal manager’s midweek comments.
On Friday, he answered by referring to City’s ongoing hearing with the Premier League over the club’s alleged financial misdeeds.
Guardiola stated ahead of Saturday’s trip to Newcastle United: ‘Next time, Mikel needs to be more specific about what he means.
Guardiola also verified Rodri’s season-ending injury to the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his right knee.
Meanwhile, Arteta has mocked Arsenal’s critics for their conservative playing style at the Etihad, claiming that any other approach would be like wearing ‘flip-flops and shorts’ in the rain.
Ahead of Arsenal’s match against Leicester, Arteta added: ‘I want to win. The way we prepare games and the way we want to play — in our way.
Ben White and Jurrien Timber are expected to return to the squad, while David Raya’s fitness status will be determined later.
“(Arsenal defender) Gabriel said it perfectly after the match,” Guardiola continued. This is a conflict, and our goal is to push and agitate our opponent. What else can you do in the end? Do you desire a war? We are at war right now.
