Guardiola on the clash with Arsenal: Neither team created much. In terms of physicality, they’re really good

Manchester City’s Sunday afternoon showdown with Arsenal is over. A match that could decide the title didn’t offer much footballing beauty, nor did it offer goals. The 0: 0 result suits the visitors more, City are three points behind Liverpool. How did Pep Guardiola sum up the match in his post-match press conference?

The football world was looking forward to the clash between Manchester City and Arsenal. Both teams are playing for the title and we were supposed to see an even battle with some nice goals falling. But the teams delivered only one wish.

The battle was even, but at times it was more like a chess game. The game was more about tactics and not making any mistakes. It was played from whitewash to whitewash and there were few chances.

The game was controlled by the home team, who kept the ball on their feet 72% of the time. However, coach Pep Guardiola admitted in his press conference that despite this possession, his team didn’t actually have many chances.

“We didn’t create much, neither did they. The defences were compact. They are really good, at least in terms of the physical side. We had one or two chances in transition, but we couldn’t convert them. We are what we are,” he said at the press conference.

Guardiola is one of the best coaches in the world and when he has the chance, he praises the opponent, which he did in Arsenal’s case. The fewer chances are related to his undeniable quality.

Guardiola praises Arsenal…

“The last game at the Emirates was pretty much the same. We tried to create even more, but it was not easy. Arsenal defended well and pressed high. They are compact and it works for them. They often play straightforward and it causes problems for the opponents,” he praised his opponents.

The 0:0 result was used perfectly by Liverpool, who took the lead in the league. They are currently two points ahead of Arsenal and three points ahead of City, with nine rounds left in the season.

The fate of all three teams fighting for the title is similar and we are in for a very exciting finish. Theoretically, fourth-placed Aston Villa could still join the fray, but they would have to beat their opponents in the return leg.

Source: Premier League, NBC Sports