Pep Guardiola warns the Gunners to get ready for ‘a war’ with Manchester City.

Andy Hampson, Pa Friday, September 27, 2024, 10:30 pm GMT+1·3-minute read.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has warned Arsenal to prepare for “a war” as the fallout from last week’s heated clash between the two clubs continues.

Guardiola has also asked his opposite number, Mikel Arteta, to explain himself after making cryptic remarks about City, claiming that he had “all the information” about the Champions.

The Premier League title rivals drew 2-2 on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, with heated exchanges following John Stones’ dramatic stoppage-time equaliser for the hosts.

A fired-up Erling Haaland was at the center of the argument after throwing the ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel’s head and then barging into Thomas Partey.

Guardiola stated that he did not condone his star striker’s actions but could understand them, highlighting a growing rift between the two sides.

He said, “I’d say that sometimes the emotions are so strong.

“Gabriel said it perfectly after the match: this is a war, and we are here to provoke and push our opponent.

“In the end, what can you do? Okay, you provoked me, and I’m there. Do you want a war? I will start a war.

“What do I need to do?” Following that, the emotions remain the same. I’m sure he (Haaland) isn’t proud, but listen: I understand the type of challenge that Arsenal presents.”

Guardiola (right) says he has a good relationship with Arteta (right), but he wants him to explain recent comments.
Stones’ late goal provided relief for City after the Gunners, who had 10 men, had frustrated them throughout the second half by defending deeply and wasting time at every opportunity.

Arsenal’s tactics and use of football’s so-called ‘dark arts’ drew harsh criticism from several City players.

Arteta, Guardiola’s former number two, responded to that this week.

When asked about the barbs, Arteta replied, “I’ve been there before.” “I was there four years. I have all the information. So, believe me.

Guardiola was left wondering whether his fellow Spaniard was referring to City’s tactical approach or their high-profile off-field issues.

City are currently defending themselves against 115 charges of violating Premier League regulations as a result of an investigation into their finances.

Guardiola said at a press conference to preview Saturday’s game at Newcastle: “Next time, he needs to be more specific about what he means.”

“He said he was here for four years, and we know exactly what happened here.

“It could be related to the current process with 115 charges; perhaps it is about that.

“He may have information on that or something similar. I do not know.

“OK, next time, like the good relationship I have with him, hopefully this question will be asked. He can explain exactly what he meant when he said, “I’m here and I know what’s going on here, and instead of being in the clouds there (points upward), to be more precise.”

Guardiola has maintained that he still has a good relationship with Arteta, who left City in December 2019 to take over as Arsenal manager, but that relationship may now be strained.

When asked if he planned to call Arteta, Guardiola replied: “No, because we spoke by text after the game and that’s all.”