Pep Guardiola admits: 'Arsenal is the best team in the world'

Pep Guardiola surprised many by openly praising Arsenal highly, amid Manchester City's decline and their growing gap in the Premier League title race.

Pep Guardiola attracted significant attention by publicly acknowledging that Arsenal is currently the number one football team in the world. This statement came as Manchester City has been dropping points consistently, showing a clear dip in form and gradually falling behind Arsenal in this season's Premier League title battle.

Under Pep Guardiola, Man City once dominated English football with six Premier League titles. However, this season has become particularly challenging. Man City has failed to win in their last four matches, recording three draws and one defeat, leaving them 7 points behind Arsenal with 16 games remaining in the season.

When asked about the title race, Pep did not shy away but frankly praised his rivals. He stated: “Certainly, Arsenal is the best team in the world right now. Looking at the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup – they are the strongest side at the moment.” This admission reflects Arsenal’s stability and all-around strength.

Nevertheless, the Spanish coach still holds hope that Man City can close the gap. He emphasized the need for daily improvement and patience: “Hopefully, we can stay close and get better every day. Give us a chance to catch up.” The 1-1 draw between the two teams in September is seen as a foundation for City’s belief in a possible comeback.

Pep faces numerous challenges ahead, especially as Man City struggles across all competitions. The heavy 1-3 defeat to Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League was a major shock, raising concerns about the reigning champions’ stability and squad depth.

This weekend’s home match against Wolves at Etihad is viewed as an opportunity for Man City to restore their reputation. Pep acknowledged the unavoidable pressure to win: “We cannot afford to lose, right? We just can’t. Man City is expected to be perfect and not allowed to lose.” He concluded with determination: “We have to change the situation, win, and score goals.”

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