Plenty of narratives surround the clash between Arsenal and Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round, ranging from a dress rehearsal for the title race in the Premier League to a reunion between Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola. The Gunners boss was assistant coach to his opposite number for a few seasons at the Etihad Stadium.
The Spaniard won plenty of trophies in his time under his compatriot but in 2019 took the large leap to taking over at the Emirates Stadium. The rebuild has taken time and plenty of backing but this season is showing that process bear fruit as Arsenal sit top of the table.
With a title challenge on the cards against Guardiola, Arteta appeared glad to be in the fight against an old friend, telling reporters: “I always hoped that that was going to be the case one day and it’s happening this season. That’s not going to change any friendship, the moments that we have, how important he is in my life, how important he is in my profession. We’re both willing to win and defend our clubs in any way and that’s always been the case since day one.”
With the FA Cup clash giving each other a taste of what’s to come, it seems as though both will meet afterwards to share in a drink, with Arteta telling ITV “for sure” in response to a question on seeing one another post-match, while Guardiola added: “I think so.”
The Man City boss was full of praise for his former assistant as well, adding: “[We are] really good. We worked together so we have a good relationship. Both want to win, nothing is going to change. Before and after we will be there and both will want to win.”
It shows a comradery between the pair that were once so close, even despite there being an ongoing rivalry in the race for the Premier League title.
source: football.london
