The managers of Manchester City and Arsenal have been known to make subtle jabs at one another, despite their generally cordial relationship. Having seemed to insinuate earlier this week that he knew Manchester City’s secrets, Mikel Arteta should be more explicit in his remarks, according to Pep Guardiola.
The rivalry between the two clubs has undoubtedly grown over the past week with their fierce match at the Etihad on Sunday, which resulted in multiple fights amongst the players and coaching staff. “I have been there (City) before,” Arteta declared on Tuesday, demonstrating how visibly incensed he was about allegations that his squad had used the “dark arts” to protect their lead at the Etihad Stadium with 10 men. Four years were spent there. I possess all the data. That’s why I am aware. You should trust me.
The City leader stated on Friday: “He needs to be more specific about his intentions the next time. We are well aware of everything that took place in these four years.” Perhaps the 115 charges (for purportedly breaching Premier League finance regulations) are the reason. I’m not sure if he knows anything about that or if he has anything else.
“Next time, with the good relations I have with him, he can answer exactly what he means when he says he was here.” After a heated second half in last week’s championship match, which was marred by fights on the field and the touchline, Guardiola also took aim at Gabriel, an Arsenal defender who was in the middle of things.