Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City’s crucial 2-1 victory over Arsenal has only given his side “hope” in the Premier League title race, stressing there is still plenty to play for before the end of the season.
City now sit three points behind the leaders with a game in hand and could go top for the first time this campaign if they defeat Burnley on Wednesday.
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Guardiola’s men are emerging as favourites for a seventh league title in his 10 seasons in Manchester, with momentum firmly on their side, while Arsenal have slumped to four consecutive domestic defeats, including the League Cup final loss to City.
However, the Spaniard downplayed the significance of the win, emphasising that the title race remains wide open.
“We are there, but the reality is what? Who is top of the league? We are not. Who has the better goal difference?” Guardiola said.
“So, step by step. But of course, we’ve got hope to still extend the chances to fight in the league.”
Erling Haaland struck the decisive goal 25 minutes from time in a finely balanced contest.
Arsenal twice hit the post in the second half and missed clear chances through Kai Havertz, either side of Haaland’s winner.
Earlier, Rayan Cherki had opened the scoring with a superb solo effort, only for Havertz to equalise quickly after charging down an attempted clearance from Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Guardiola also paid glowing tribute to Bernardo Silva, who recently announced he will leave the club at the end of the season after nine years.
“You have to write the word legend in capital letters for him, not just for today but for every single game during nine years,” Guardiola added.
“He is a special player. Wherever he goes, that team will be so lucky.”
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