Arsenal's 2-2 draw with bottom-placed Wolves offers Man City an opportunity to narrow the gap to two points and take control of the title race. With the two teams set to face each other directly at the Etihad Stadium on 18/4, Man City would secure the championship if they win all 12 of their remaining matches.

Head coach Pep Guardiola shakes hands with fans before Man City's 2-0 victory over Salford City in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England on 14/2. *Man City*

However, Guardiola stated he has never mentioned the league table in the locker room. "I don't know what will happen in the 12 remaining matches," he said during the pre-match press conference for the Newcastle game. "I haven't spoken a second about it with the players. Yesterday, the day before, it was just Newcastle, Newcastle and Newcastle. 12 more matches is a long road. Many things can happen."

Guardiola also dismissed the notion that Man City's title-winning experience would be a differentiator. According to the Spanish tactician, "70% of Man City's squad consists of new players who have not experienced similar situations."

The 55-year-old head coach admitted Man City experienced overload, thus appreciating the full one-week break since their 2-0 victory over Salford City in the fourth round of the FA Cup. "The players have re-energized. They have trained well the past two days," he stated.

According to Guardiola, Man City rushed Rodri's return after an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which led to the Spanish midfielder's muscle problem recurrence and a long-term absence from the start of the season. "The eagerness to bring Rodri back, especially from him personally, made things happen hastily. That was a big lesson," he expressed.

Rodri during Man City's training session on 18/2. *Man City*

Rodri was absent for almost all of October, played only one minute in November, and then remained sidelined until the new year. Guardiola stated that the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner is gradually regaining his form, though not yet at his best. "He is clearly improving. We wanted it sooner, but he needs more time. Rodri is a special player. When he is on the field, his teammates feel more secure," he emphasized.

Rodri has 18 months remaining on his contract, and Guardiola publicly expressed his desire for the player to extend. "I really want that. Rodri increasingly understands the game better, showing more courage. There are players defined by big stages, and he is one of them," the Man City manager said.

Regarding the squad, Guardiola confirmed that Erling Haaland and Savinho are ready to return, while Jeremy Doku remains absent. He also praised the versatility of newcomer Antoine Semenyo, who has scored four goals in seven matches since joining Man City, can play all three attacking positions, and quickly adapts to the pace and defensive requirements.

Hong Duy (via ESPN, Daily Mail)