Arteta Hints That Manchester City Also Use “Dark Arts”; Guardiola: He’d Better Clarify This Issue

According to The Guardian, after Arteta’s recent comments about Manchester City, Guardiola has asked the Arsenal manager to clarify his remarks.

Both teams drew 2-2 last week, and afterwards, Manchester City players such as Stones and Bernardo Silva criticized Arsenal for using “dark arts,” employing many time-wasting tactics in an attempt to maintain their advantage.

In an interview on Wednesday, when asked about this issue, Arteta hinted that he had witnessed Guardiola using similar tactics during his time at Manchester City. Arteta stated: “I know something about it. I was at Manchester City for four years, so I have all the information. So I know. Believe me.”

However, by Friday, Guardiola seemed somewhat displeased with Arteta’s remarks, responding in an interview: “I hope Mikel can express his views more clearly next time. He says he was here for four years and knows what’s going on. This might be related to the ongoing 115 allegations, or it might not be, he may have other information… I’m not sure. Given my good relationship with Mikel, I hope this matter can be properly resolved. When he mentions being here and knowing what’s happening, he should explain more precisely to avoid misunderstandings.”

Additionally, Guardiola commented on Haaland’s behavior during the match against Arsenal. At the time, the Norwegian striker threw the ball at Gabriel after Stones equalized, and at the end of the game, told Arteta to “be more humble.”

“My view is that sometimes emotional outbursts are inevitable. Gabriel made it clear after the game, ‘This is psychological warfare; we need to provoke the opponent and put pressure on them.’ What can you do in such a situation? ‘You provoke me, alright, I’m right here. You want a fight, let’s fight.’ As for me, I believe Haaland won’t be proud of it afterwards, but considering the challenge Arsenal presented, I understand.”

This weekend, Manchester City will face Newcastle, while Arsenal will play Leicester City, both important matches in the sixth round of the Premier League.