Guardiola dismisses Arteta rift ahead of Arsenal clash at the Emirates

Pep Guardiola has emphasized that his relationship with Mikel Arteta remains "exceptional" ahead of Manchester City's Premier League match against Arsenal.

The two worked together at City before Arteta became Arsenal's manager in 2019. Over the past two seasons, their teams have competed for the league title, with Guardiola winning both times. In their previous encounter this season, a 2-2 draw, tensions flared after Erling Haaland’s comments and Arteta's accusations about City’s tactics.

Despite this, Guardiola insists there is mutual respect between him and Arteta. City also face Real Madrid in the Champions League play-offs after their win over Club Brugge. Guardiola described their upcoming ties, including against Newcastle, Liverpool, and Tottenham, as tough but manageable.