September 25th 2024.
Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta have a strong bond that remains unshaken despite their teams' intense rivalry on the pitch. The two managers have been exchanging friendly texts since their teams faced off in a memorable clash on Sunday. Despite the fiery match, their friendship remains intact.
The 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad was a heated affair, with a red card for Leandro Trossard and an injury-time equalizer from John Stones. There was also a clash between Erling Haaland and several Arsenal players after the final whistle. This intense rivalry has made for a great spectacle, with both teams vying for the top spot in the division.
However, amidst all this tension, Pep and Arteta have managed to maintain a strong friendship. The two Spaniards previously worked together at City before Arteta left to take over at Arsenal. While their players may not get along, the managers have not let the rivalry affect their bond.
Manchester City wasted no time getting back into action after Sunday's draw, securing a 2-1 victory over Watford in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night. When asked about their friendship, Guardiola confirmed that he had already exchanged texts with Arteta and that their relationship remains unchanged, despite any potentially cynical tactics from the Gunners.
"The opponents can play however they want, it's up to us to handle them," said Guardiola. "With Mikel, we texted each other. The relationship, it doesn't change."
Arteta also spoke about his relationship with Guardiola, stating that while their roles have changed since working together, his admiration for the City manager remains the same. "My opinion is he is the best coach in the world by a mile and he's one of the nicest people I have met in football," said Arteta.
Despite their friendship, both managers are determined to win when their teams face each other. As Arteta put it, "We both want to win. We know each other very well and I will prepare the game to win it."
In the recent Carabao Cup match, Guardiola made several changes to his team, giving young players a chance to shine. He explained that the hectic schedule leaves no room for rest, but the competition allows for opportunities to play and develop. "We play to go through," he said. "We never throw a competition. Never."
While the rivalry between Manchester City and Arsenal continues to intensify, the bond between Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta remains strong. Despite their different roles and goals, their friendship and mutual respect endure.
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