Guardiola v Arteta ‘I love Pep – but out of my hands if someone wants to damage that’

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has played down talk of a feud with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. He expressed his enduring affection for his former colleague, emphasizing that attempts to “damage” their friendship are beyond his control.

Arteta’s comments come after a tense encounter between Arsenal and Manchester City, and in response to Guardiola’s remarks about a brewing ‘war’ between the two teams. The friction has been fueled by on-field controversies and remarks from both sides.

Arteta has repeatedly expressed his admiration for Pep Guardiola. Speaking on Saturday, he said, “I’ve admired him since I was 10 years old. I respect him profoundly.” He emphasized his gratitude for everything Guardiola has done for him, both personally and professionally.

The tension escalated after City’s players accused Arteta of using ‘dark arts’ to defend a 2-1 lead in their recent match. Arteta joked that he had “all the information” on City, given his lengthy tenure as Guardiola’s assistant. These comments did not sit well with Guardiola.

The win over Leicester was crucial, especially as Manchester City dropped points against Newcastle. This scenario has added another layer of intrigue to the ongoing Arteta-Guardiola narrative.

Guardiola’s statement reflects the high stakes and simmering tensions between the two teams. It’s clear that both managers are deeply invested in their respective club’s success.

Another notable rivalry was between Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. Their heated exchanges, especially following Mourinho’s ‘clown’ comment, marked a period of intense competition. Conte didn’t mince words either, calling Mourinho “a little man” in 2018.

Ferguson also clashed with Arsene Wenger, who managed Arsenal. Their frequent disagreements over tactics, player treatment, and fixture schedules added spice to their encounters. The rivalry defined Premier League football in the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Fans and football pundits alike will keep a close watch on this evolving rivalry. It’s a blend of competitive spirit and mutual respect, making it fascinating to follow.

Arteta’s leadership skills continue to influence his team’s dynamics. His ability to maintain a positive atmosphere is crucial for Arsenal’s ambitions this season.

The rivalry between Guardiola and Arteta is multifaceted, blending competition with deep-rooted respect. Arteta’s admiration for Guardiola remains clear, despite recent tensions.

As the season progresses, this relationship will undoubtedly be a focal point. Football fans can expect more drama, but the undercurrent of mutual respect is likely to persist.

Source: Bbc