Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shut down talk of any tension with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. The comments come just days before a crucial cup final between both sides.
The clarification has drawn attention ahead of the Guardiola vs Arteta rivalry.
Moreover, he explained that their reduced contact is simply due to busy schedules. The City boss stressed that both managers are focused on their teams.
“I don’t have time to go to London, and I don’t think he has time to come to Manchester,” he said. “When we were here (when Arteta was a coach at City) we saw each other five or six hours every day, so the relationship is completely different after his five or six years in London.”
Despite growing competition between both clubs, their relationship has remained respectful. However, the rivalry on the pitch has intensified in recent seasons.
Furthermore, Arsenal and Manchester City have been locked in tight title races. This has naturally fueled speculation about possible friction between the two managers.
Guardiola, however, dismissed such claims firmly. “If you are trying to with that question create conflict between myself and Mikel, or Arsenal, I am old enough to notice that,” he added. His response was seen as a direct pushback against narratives suggesting tension. Meanwhile, fans continue to anticipate a fierce contest on the pitch.
The history between both managers adds another layer to the story. Arteta worked under Guardiola at Manchester City from 2016 to 2019.
In addition, they spent long hours together daily during that period.
However, things changed when Arteta moved to Arsenal as head coach. Since then, both have taken different paths while competing at the highest level.
Attention now turns to the upcoming Carabao Cup final. The match is expected to be intense, given both teams’ recent performances.
