The Arsenal-Manchester City game did not help either Pep Guardiola or Mikel Arteta. Both teams had to settle for a solitary point and the real winners were Liverpool, who now have a 2-point lead at the top. Hence, for the first time in many years, there is a 3-way race for the Premier League title. But which of the 3 sides is playing the best soccer currently on the pitch? It seems Guardiola’s response to the question isn’t universally agreed upon.

In the post-match presser, the Manchester City boss was asked which among the title challengers Liverpool and Arsenal is playing best. Pep Guardiola’s response was straightforward as he replied, “Right now? Manchester City.” However, the Spanish tactician followed it with a typical humorous response. Addressing the journalist in question, he said, “Oh your reaction, you are not agreeing.” The journalist replied, “I think we’ve seen Manchester City play better than they have done, in the last six years.” Guardiola agreed and nonchalantly added that his side did win 5 Premier Leagues in that period! “Jurgen and Mikel with the team are exceptional, but still we are there,” he added.

Though Pep Guardiola was all jokes in the press conference, he did not look happy at the touchline yesterday. And, it is understandably why. Despite having 73% of the possession, the Sky Blues had just 1 shot on target! Arsenal on the other hand, while having significantly less of the ball, managed twice as many. Hence, it was a case of beauty without efficiency for Premier League champions.

The result further dented Manchester City’s hopes of a 4th consecutive League title. With 9 games to go,  can Pep Guardiola pull a rabbit out of the hat and win the title despite not being a favorite? There are two huge challenges in front of the Spanish tactician.

Injuries and fixture congestion not helping Pep Guardiola & Co

This season, injuries have not been kind to Manchester City at all. The season started with a 6-month layoff for the Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne. And even in yesterday’s match, injuries hampered Manchester City dearly. In the 26th minute, Dutch defender Nathan Ake limped off the pitch and was substituted by Rico Lewis. This means Ake joins an injury list with the likes of John Stones, Ederson, and Kyle Walker.

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Also, Pep Guardiola is unhappy with the tight fixture congestion as well. The Sky Blues have some eventful weeks ahead including a visit to the Santiago Bernabeu. Regarding the same, Guardiola said, “We play against Villa at 20:15, then at 12:30 against Crystal Palace on Saturday! Then go to Madrid on Tuesday. Real Madrid has nine days to prepare, nine days! They play this weekend and they won’t until our game. The difference is a lot.” If Manchester City has to retain their treble, then it is a necessity that they have to address the challenges regarding injuries and schedule in the best possible manner.

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