Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has escalated the rivalry with Arsenal following their dramatic 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium last weekend. After City players John Stones and Kyle Walker accused Arsenal of using “dark arts” to defend their 2-1 lead during the match, Arsenal defender Gabriel vowed that his team would be ready for City’s return visit to the Emirates on February 1, 2025.
During a pre-match press conference ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Newcastle United, Guardiola responded to the growing tension, stating, “You want a war? Now we war. Gabriel said it perfectly, so this is a war.”
The Spanish coach also addressed the incident involving City’s striker Erling Haaland, who threw the ball at Gabriel after the match, explaining that emotions were running high. Guardiola acknowledged that Haaland may not be proud of his actions but expressed understanding given the intensity of the match against Arsenal.
As the rivalry heats up, both teams seem set for an even more fiery rematch in February.
