The Rivalry Between Manchester City-Arsenal Escalates as Pep Guardiola Takes Aim at Mikel Arteta Over “Dark Arts” Controversy

The rivalry between Manchester City and Arsenal is heating up following their recent 2-2 draw, with Pep Guardiola taking aim at Mikel Arteta over the latter’s claims of having inside information about the Citizens.

The match was marred by controversy, with Arsenal facing criticism for their defensive tactics in the second half and Rodri suffering a season-ending injury.

Man City defender John Stones accused Arsenal of employing “dirty” tactics, prompting Arteta to defend his team and claim that he had “all the information” from his time as Guardiola’s assistant at City.

Guardiola was not pleased with Arteta’s comments, especially given the ongoing legal proceedings against Man City over alleged financial irregularities.

Pep Guardiola asked about Mikel Arteta’s comments: “DID HE SAY THAT?! Mikel has to be MORE CLEAR on exactly what info he knows. Maybe about the 115 charges – I don’t know?! HOPEFULLY NEXT TIME HE CAN ANSWER *EXACTLY* WHAT HE MEANS!” 🫨

🎥 @BeanymanSportspic.twitter.com/xlVTg5OQ8K

— City Report (@cityreport_) September 27, 2024

The Man City manager demanded more clarity from his former apprentice, suggesting that Arteta might have knowledge of the club’s internal affairs.

“Next time, Mikel has to be more clear,” Guardiola said. “He has to be clear next time about exactly what he means that he was here for four years and he knows exactly what happened here.”

Despite the heated exchange, Arteta insisted that his personal relationship with Guardiola remains intact. The Arsenal boss expressed his admiration for Guardiola and emphasised that their professional rivalry would not affect their personal bond.

"It's quite simple. Don't take it personally, it's part of our job"

Mikel Arteta says that he 'loves' Pep Guardiola and cares about the relationship that they have ❤️ pic.twitter.com/KNJ13Fl54p

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 27, 2024

As the Premier League title race heats up, the feud between Guardiola and Arteta adds another layer of intrigue to the already intense rivalry between Man City and Arsenal.

Both teams will be looking to bounce back from their recent draw and maintain their title aspirations. Man City travel to Newcastle for Saturday’s early kick-off, while Arsenal welcome strugglers Leicester City to the Emirates.