Manager Pep Guardiola has declared Arsenal the "best team in the world right now", even as his Manchester City side aims to close the gap in the Premier League. Arsenal currently leads the league by seven points over Manchester City and Aston Villa, while also competing in three other major competitions.
"Arsenal are the best team in the world right now," Guardiola said on 23/1 during a press conference ahead of Manchester City's 22nd round Premier League match against Wolves. "Look at them in the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. We hope to stay close and wait for an opportunity to overtake them."
The Gunners are having an exceptional season, competing in all four competitions. They won all seven of their Champions League group stage matches, defeated Chelsea 3-2 in the first leg of the League Cup semi-finals, and will face Wigan in the fourth round of the FA Cup on 15/2.
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Manager Pep Guardiola at a press conference after Manchester City's 1-3 loss to Bodo/Glimt in Bodo, Norway on 20/1/2026. Photo: AP.
In contrast to Arsenal's strong form, Manchester City has struggled recently, enduring a run of four consecutive matches without a win in the Premier League, most recently a 0-2 defeat to Manchester United. Earlier this week, Manchester City also lost 1-3 to Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League.
"I know exactly why we are struggling right now. I understand 100% what is happening with the team. We just need more time," Guardiola stated, also acknowledging the difference in standards between Manchester City and Arsenal. "For Arsenal, 18 points in the Champions League is normal. For us, 13 points is a disaster. Manchester City's standards are always very high."
Guardiola also defended striker Erling Haaland, who has scored only one goal in his last eight matches and apologized to fans after the loss to Bodo/Glimt. "Haaland does not need to apologize," he said. "If the team does not win, it is the responsibility of the entire squad, not an individual."
The Spanish coach emphasized that Manchester City's current leadership group is one of the best captain collectives since he took charge of the club, featuring names like Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Haaland. These individuals, on behalf of the club, announced ticket refunds for 374 fans who traveled to Norway to watch the match against Bodo/Glimt live.
Guardiola stated that new signing Marc Guehi could make his debut in today's match against Wolves. The English center-back recently completed his move to Manchester City from Crystal Palace for 27 million USD, signing a contract until 2031.
Hong Duy (according to Premier League)
