‘If we lose, it is over’ – Guardiola on Arsenal showdown – plus duo injury updates | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola did not shy away from the pressure of Sunday’s meeting with the league leaders, where Man City have the chance to cut the gap to just three points.

With a game in hand against Crystal Palace, Manchester City could reduce Arsenal’s lead with a win at the Etihad and pile pressure on the league leaders. Asked if the match was “the final” of the league, Guardiola said: “Yes, obviously. If we lose, it is over.

“The other two results, knowing that Arsenal didn’t beat Bournemouth – we still have games to play. Six games is a lot and especially in our calendar,” he added.

Although his side beat Arsenal in their most recent meeting at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, Guardiola was full of praise for his opponents, led by his former assistant Arteta.

“Every season they are getting better and better. When [Arteta] took over the club they had problems and troubles,” he said. “Last season of course Liverpool made an incredible three quarters of the season and were unstoppable. Previous one and this season, Arsenal have been the biggest contender.”

He continued: “They are strong in all departments. The duals, the physicality. They are really good with the second-balls, when they defend deep their transition is good – it is one of the best of the best. They are so aggressive and set-pieces – that’s why they are who they are.”

City come into the meeting on a high from their convincing 3-0 win against Chelsea on Sunday, and will once again be able to count on youngster Nico O’Reilly, who scored twice against Arsenal at Wembley and again against Chelsea before being taken off.

It appears the withdrawal was precautionary, as the manager said O’Reilly is “fine” to feature on the weekend. Ruben Dias however is “not ready” yet, according to Guardiola and will remain out of action for at least another week.