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After the draw against Arsenal. Manchester City must be ready for another tedious title challenge
Pep Guardiola praised Arsenal as Manchester City’s biggest rivals following their thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium.
The Cityzens needed a late equaliser from John Stones to salvage a point at the Etihad, as Arsenal’s spirited performance nearly handed them a famous win.
Arsenal push Manchester City to the limit
Erling Haaland gave City an early lead, finishing clinically after being set up by Savinho, and the champions looked dominant until an injury to midfielder Rodri shifted the momentum.
Arsenal capitalised on Rodri’s substitution almost immediately, with Riccardo Calafiori scoring a stunning goal to level the match with his first strike since joining the Gunners this summer.
Gabriel’s header from Bukayo Saka’s corner then gave the visitors a 2-1 lead, putting City under pressure for the entire second half.
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However, Arsenal’s hopes of claiming a famous victory were dented when Leandro Trossard was sent off before halftime. Despite playing with 10 men, Arsenal held firm until Stones’ late equaliser secured a 2-2 draw for City.
Guardiola’s Respect for Arsenal
Following the game, Guardiola lauded Arsenal as City’s toughest challengers over the past two seasons, praising the Gunners for consistently pushing Manchester City to their limits.
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Speaking to Sky Sports, Guardiola said, “They are the biggest contender in the last two years. They are exceptional, and we know it. They are able to do many, many good things.”
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Given the result of the first match between them and the Gunners’ form at the start of the season, it looks certain that Arsenal will push Manchester City to the limit again this season and could even go on to win the league title for the first time since winning it in 2004.
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