Premier League decider? Guardiola says defeat to Arsenal ends City’s chase as top two clash at Etihad | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola has said the Premier League title race will be over if Manchester City lose to Arsenal this weekend.

City host Arsenal at the Etihad on Sunday afternoon as thePremier League's top two go head-to-head. The Citizens trail Arsenal in the title race by six points, though do have a game in hand.

Guardiola's side enter the clash in good form, following emphatic wins over Liverpool and Chelsea. Arsenal have endured a dip in recent weeks, winning once in five games across all competitions.

It's a momentous occasion for both teams and Guardiola has said his side cannot afford to lose.

"Yes, obviously. If we lose, it is over," he said at hispre-match press conference.

"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. Everton away, Bournemouth away, Aston Villa the last game at home. Crystal Palace and Brentford. There are still many things to do."

City will hope to take a psychological advantage into the game, having beaten Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final last month. However, he said Arsenal will be determined to right those wrongs as the North Londoners chase a first Premier League title in 22 years.

"We will be ready. I do not know how we will approach. It was a final, this is the Premier League. The Carabao Cup is important but the Premier League is much more. Twenty-two years without winning. If I give you the game of absolutes that if they win it will be over - there is a mental aspect.

"Of course, we respect them so much and the quality they have - I have no doubts about that, but it's about how we approach tactically and mentally. That is all I am concerned about."