Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has commented on the title race in England and the rivalry with nearest rivals Manchester City. The Spanish coach said he would prefer not to compete against Pep Guardiola for the Premier League title, thus praising his former colleague.
The 2 Spanish technicians played together at Barcelona, before working together at Manchester City, where Arteta had the role of Guardiola's assistant. Mikel then left the "Citizens" in 2019 to become Arsenal's coach. The Londoners are enjoying a fantastic moment in the Premier League, as they lead the overall standings by 5 points from City, as well as with a game in hand. Arteta recently commented to the media:
"It's a strange feeling. I want the best for him (Guardiola), honestly, when you're competing with someone like him, something comes in the middle of that feeling. I always hoped we would compete for trophies one day and it is happening this season. It won't change my friendship, the moments we've had, how important he is in my life and in my profession."
Arteta added:
"We are both willing to win and defend our club with everything possible, and that has been the case since day one. But I'd rather race against someone else."
Arsenal have yet to face Manchester City in the Championship, and the 2 matches are scheduled to be played on February 15th and April 26th. In all likelihood, the meetings will be decisive in terms of the championship title.
Meanwhile, Arteta did not exclude the possibility of another approach in this January market, this time in the midfield department, where the needs are greater according to the Spanish technician. So far, Arsenal have brought in 2 new players this transfer window, striker Leandro Trossard from Brighton and defender Jakub Kiwior from Spezia in Italy.
