Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal currently sit six points clear at the top of the table. However, City have the advantage of playing at home and also have a game in hand.
If Guardiola’s men can beat Arsenal and then secure another win against Burnley on Wednesday, they would climb to the top of the table for the first time in months.
Arsenal, who are chasing their first league title in 22 years, seem to have slowed down at a crucial point. Their defeat to City in last month’s League Cup final has been followed by a poor run of form, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions.
Despite this, Guardiola remains cautious, especially with tough away fixtures against Everton and Bournemouth still ahead.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday, he said, “If we lose, then yes, it’s over. But there are still games left to play. Six matches is a lot, especially considering our schedule.”
Arsenal have also had a demanding week, having just edged past Sporting Lisbon to reach the Champions League semi-finals. Meanwhile, City have enjoyed a full week of preparation.
Arteta praised his players for their resilience, highlighting that they are the only English team still competing at that stage after juggling four competitions.
Guardiola, however, acknowledged Arsenal’s quality so far this season, calling them the best team in England up to this point. He also warned his players not to let emotions take over.
“They’ve been the best so far, but we’re here to challenge them,” he said. “I told the players—it’s just a football game. Once emotions distract you, that’s when you lose focus.”
On the other hand, City striker Erling Haaland described the clash as a title-deciding moment.
“It’s a huge game, no doubt. We all understand what’s at stake—it feels like a final,” he said. “These are the kind of matches every player wants to be part of.”
Guardiola also confirmed that Nico O’Reilly, who scored both goals in the League Cup final, is fit despite picking up a knock during last weekend’s 3-0 win over Chelsea. However, captain Ruben Dias is still unavailable due to injury.
