Guardiola Backs Arteta's Arsenal to Lift the Title

Man City boss praises his former assistant ahead of Emirates showdown

Guardiola Backs Arteta's Arsenal to Lift the Title

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's backed Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal to lift the Premier League title in the future as the 2 side meet in high profile clash at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

From assistant to rival

Arteta who worked as Guardiola's assistant at City before taking charge of Arsenal in 2020 has transformed the Gunners into genuine contenders.

Guardiola admitted that while their personal contact has reduced, the respect remains strong.

Guardiola's prediction

"Since Mikel arrived, things at Arsenal have improved a lot, Sooner or later, they will win the Premier League .. it’s only natural. Hopefully not too soon" Guardiola said in his press conference.

Mikel Arteta is the first EVER manager to go five consecutive league games unbeaten against Pep Guardiola.

The apprentice really has become the master. 🎓 pic.twitter.com/yJyXBhlfm2

— Squawka (@Squawka) September 21, 2025

Title race context

Arsenal currently sit third in the table with 9 point trailing leaders Liverpool by 6.

City, meanwhile are struggling in 12th place with just 6 point ahead of their trip to North London.

32.8% - Manchester City's draw at the Emirates included the lowest ever possession average by a Pep Guardiola team in a top-flight league match (today his 601st), while the two lowest have both been at Arsenal in the Premier League (32.8% today, 36.5% in March 2023). Pragmatism. pic.twitter.com/MgBd9Gtehj

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 21, 2025