Guardiola, however, noted that Arsenal’s loss to Bournemouth let Man City back into the title race.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team cannot afford a loss to Premier League leaders Arsenal this weekend, stating that a defeat would signify the end of their title aspirations.
The Spanish tactician made this known during his press conference ahead of the crucial Week 33 league fixture.
City welcome the Gunners in a top-of-the-table clash on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s men are currently six points ahead of Guardiola’s men, although City have a game in hand.
A win for Arsenal would extend the gap, while the former champions have the chance to move within three points.
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City were held to a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture at the Emirates. However, they beat Arsenal 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final last month as they began to build momentum ahead of the run-in.
Speaking on the eagerly anticipated encounter, Guardiola noted that Arsenal’s loss to Bournemouth gave his side hope.
He added, however, that a loss to the North London outfit would leave the Citizens with too much to do.
“If we lose, it’s over. But with the other two results, and knowing that Arsenal didn’t win against Bournemouth, we still have games to play,” Guardiola said.
