Synergy Sports
Mumbai: Manchester City’s Premier League title ambitions have taken a hit during a challenging phase of the season, despite the defending champions currently sitting second in the table. The Sky Blues are coming off a difficult run of results, including a 3-1 defeat to Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Champions League and a 2-0 loss to rivals Manchester United in their latest Premier League outing.
Amid mounting pressure and back-to-back setbacks, City manager Pep Guardiola delivered a strong defense of his squad while also offering high praise for league leaders Arsenal.
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming home clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola insisted he has complete faith in his players.
“One week ago we were at Newcastle and won 2-0, and you look in the Champions League how strong they are,” Guardiola said. “I have an extraordinary team and we are all together. I don’t have any doubts about that.”
In a surprise verdict, the Spanish tactician singled out Arsenal for special praise, calling Mikel Arteta’s side the best in world football at the moment.
“[Arsenal] are the best team in the world,” Guardiola said, acknowledging the Gunners’ dominance both domestically and in Europe.
While conceding that City’s title challenge is slipping, the 55-year-old remains hopeful his side can close the gap on Arsenal as the season progresses.
“They are the best team right now, and hopefully we can be close, getting better, and they can give us one chance to catch them,” he added.
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League standings with 50 points, seven clear of Manchester City on 43. Aston Villa sit close behind City in third place, followed by Liverpool in fourth and Manchester United rounding out the top five.
