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Pep Guardiola demands clarity from Mikel Arteta with promise of Arsenal ‘war’
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged being drawn into a “war” with Arsenal, urging Gunners boss Mikel Arteta to clarify his recent comments about his time at City.
Arteta faced criticism for employing “dark arts” during the 2-2 draw between the two teams, and his cryptic remarks were seen by some as a jab at City’s ongoing legal battle over 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations.
“I was there for four years. I have all the information. So I know. Believe me,” Arteta said, potentially alluding to City’s use of tactical fouls to disrupt play.
Guardiola, however, called on Arteta to clear up his comments, warning against fueling speculation.
“Next time, Mikel needs to be clearer about what he means,” Guardiola responded. “He said he was here for four years and knows what happened. Is this related to the 115 charges? Does he have information on that? Or is it something else?”
Guardiola expressed hope that Arteta would address these concerns directly, avoiding further misunderstandings.
The recent draw was intense, with Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães likening the rivalry to “a battle” or “a war.” In response, Guardiola, seemingly frustrated, said: “You want a war? Now we war. Gabriel said it after the match, and so it is. You provoke me, OK, I’m ready.”