Recently, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola showed no qualms in calling Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta out on his recent comments.
When quizzed about Arsenal’s dark arts, Arteta replied via Sky Sports: “No comment. I’ve been there [Manchester City] before, I was there for four years.”
“I have all the information so I know.”
Pep Guardiola responded via HaytersTV: “Well, next time, Mikel has to be more clear.”
“Next time, he has to be clear, what does he mean, he was here for four years and we know exactly what happened here, so because [it] can be related to in all the process now with the 115 charges, maybe about that, he knows the information.”
A recent report explained the reasons behind the brewing rivalry between Manchester City and Arsenal.
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Arteta points out special Guardiola trait
It was revealed that Gunners CEO Tim Lewis is one of the most prominent voices opposing state ownership while City find it ironic how the club continues to be sponsored by Emirates and travel to Dubai.
On the pitch, things were as feisty as can be during their recent 2-2 draw, with the players quarrelling with each other in the midst of and even after the game.
However, an interesting dynamic could emerge if a rivalry emerges between Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta.
Considering the pair worked with each other at the Etihad Stadium, it has always seemed like their relationship is far too deep for a Premier League title race to come in between them.
Despite City beating Arsenal to two back-to-back titles, things have seemed respectable between the pair.
However, Mikel Arteta clarified his recent comments about Manchester City by praising Pep Guardiola and his coaching staff.
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Arteta said via BeanymanSports: “Okay, I can repeat it. Very clear. I love Pep [Guardiola]. I’ve admired him since I was 10 years old. I respect him profoundly. I’m so grateful for everything he did for me and continues to do with me and I consider him a friend.”
Mikel Arteta went on to make an intriguing revelation about how Pep Guardiola is the hardest worker he has come across.
“I love and I respect every member of the staff over there because I worked with them for over four years. And when I say I know them, it means I know how hard they work. I haven’t seen a human being work as hard as Pep and the coaches and everybody in that football club to be consistently winning and the reason they are there is because they maintain that hunger.”
“I cannot be any more clear than that. If someone wants to damage that relationship I cannot control it. For me sport is about that will to win. They have it even though, they’ve won more than everybody else. Hopefully that’s clear.”
No surprise to hear how hardworking Pep Guardiola is
Mikel Arteta seemingly continues to respect and admire Pep Guardiola despite both clubs looking like they share an animosity towards each other on and off the pitch.
It is no coincidence that Guardiola is as hardworking as he is.
The £378,846-a-week manager’s detail-oriented ways coupled with his rousing success exemplify that he has always been ready to graft more than most.
Considering Arteta is also one of the best managers in the world now, he must have an incredibly busy schedule himself.
Yet, the Spaniard feels Pep Guardiola’s hard work trumps his own and others he has come across in football.
Guardiola’s tactical acumen, man-management and winning mentality are factors that have led to him being one of the most decorated coaches in the history of the sport.
But it goes without saying that it is the Manchester City boss’ dedication from day one that has led to him conquering football in the way that he has.
Pep Guardiola will appreciate such kind words from a former colleague, friend and world-class tactician.
