Why we must not lose against Arsenal – Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has conceded that his side’s chances of retaining the Premier League crown could effectively end if they suffer defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.

The highly anticipated clash between the top two teams is set to take place at Etihad Stadium, in a fixture widely seen as pivotal to the outcome of the title race.

City head into the encounter trailing the league leaders by six points, although they still have a game in hand.

“Arsenal will be champions if they manage to get a win at the Etihad. If we lose, it’s over,” Guardiola said.

Guardiola acknowledged Arsenal’s all-round quality, highlighting their strength across different aspects of the game.

“They are so strong in all departments — duels, physicality. If you allow them to build up without being aggressive, they will punish you. [David] Raya is extraordinary, and their set-pieces are also very good.

“That’s why they are where they are — top of the Premier League all season. I’m proud to be there challenging them.”

A victory for City would reduce the gap to three points, and they could move to the summit if they secure another win against Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday.

Despite that possibility, Guardiola warned that even triumph over Arsenal would not necessarily guarantee success in the title race, citing a demanding run of fixtures before the end of the campaign.

“Our calendar is terrible — Everton away, Bournemouth away, and Aston Villa at home,” he said.

“We still have Burnley, Crystal Palace and Brentford at home, and games in Europe as well. There are still many things to do.”