Pep Guardiola supplied a backhanded praise to Arsenal after their 0-0 draw with Manchester Metropolis on Sunday.
Metropolis managed 72% possession all through the sport however only one shot heading in the right direction – one fewer than Arsenal on the different finish – as they had been held to a irritating draw.
The 0-0 scoreline noticed Metropolis unable to climb to the highest of the Premier League desk, whereas Arsenal now sit two factors behind present leaders Liverpool, and Guardiola hinted at frustration in direction of the Gunners’ setup after the sport.
“I recognised my staff, I am so proud. Arsenal dropped [deep] rather well,” he stated. “It was troublesome to search out [passes] within the tight areas. The low block was actually troublesome.
“Our intention was there. They defended so effectively within the low block with lots of people, surrounding Erling [Haaland]. Be affected person and discover the move. There are other ways to do it.
“They did effectively with the press after which after the block. It would not matter what number of gamers you defend with, the principle goal is to not concede. I solely management my staff and the remainder I do not know.”
Regardless of being unable to defeat Arsenal, Guardiola insisted the battle for the title remains to be on as he seems to be to say the Premier League trophy for the second time in a row.
He stated: “Arsenal is an distinctive staff, effectively managed and the gamers are good [but] my perspective is we’re nonetheless the staff. Many issues we will be higher, however I’m happy. I stated to the staff, do not be unhappy.
“We’d not be right here at semi-final of FA Cup, quarter-final of Champions League and combating for Premier League title [if we are not the team]. We need to win however we’re there. It was a battle. It was a decent sport, I see the way in which they prepare.
“Once we had been prime we had been favourites as a result of it was in our arms however now it isn’t.”