Guardiola admits Arsenal game plan was wrong, thanks Man City for response

Pep Guardiola has admitted that his game plan was wrong in Manchester City’s 0-1 Premier League loss to Arsenal earlier this month.

The Gunners won the game at the Emirates Stadium with a last-minute goal from Gabriel Martinelli to extend their unbeaten start to the league campaign.

Pep Guardiola’s side were far from their best in North London with a limited attack. In the absence of Kevin De Bruyne and Rodney, prolific scorer Erin Harland ended the game with zero goals.

City responded to the loss with two victories, including a 3-0 thrashing of Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, Guardiola was asked for his thoughts on his team’s reaction to the loss to Arsenal.

He said, „Arsenal won because they are a good team. I would say my tactics were not right. We played differently because I thought the space would be in a different position and after that I said it was bad, but it happened. The players know the Premier League is tough. The Brighton defeat was important and it helped us a lot after the game against the youngsters“.

Pep Guardiola’s big win over Manchester United has earned them more support to win the league in May.

Jamie Carragher has praised Manchester City players for their excellent performance at Old Trafford. When asked if they were favorites to win the title, he said, „Yes, of course. I don’t think there’s any dispute about that.

„I think the problem with City is that they’re a bit like I was against Gary (Neville) and Roy (Keane) back in the day, and even though United haven’t topped the table at this stage, they’re almost ready for the next game. In a way, they are ready for the second half of the season.

„Today was an important game, they put on a good show and showed everyone that they are still the team to beat. I think they will win the league easily, really.

„I don’t think Liverpool are ready for a tough challenge, Arsenal were obviously the same last season and although they’ve started well, I don’t think they’re as good as they were at this stage last season. I just think City will win“.