Guardiola reveals how his relationship with Arteta has changed after he moved to Arsenal

As the 2022/23 Premier League season draws to a close, the title race is heating up with Arsenal currently sitting at the top of the table with 75 points after 32 games. However, they are closely followed by Manchester City, who have 70 points and two games in hand. The upcoming clash between these two teams is highly anticipated as it could potentially decide who will be crowned champions.

Ahead of this crucial match, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola spoke about his relationship with Mikel Arteta, who left his position as assistant coach at City to become Arsenal’s manager in 2019. Guardiola revealed that their relationship has changed since Arteta moved to London, but their mutual respect and affection for each other remains strong.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, is embraced by Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City at Emirates Stadium on February 15, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Tom Flathers/Manchester City FC via Getty Images)

Pep Guardiola on his relationship with Arteta speaking to Football Daily: “It changed because he’s in London & I’m in Manchester, so we don’t see each other quite often. He’s busy, I’m busy, but the affection & the respect I have with him will remain forever, he knows that.”

Despite being rivals on the pitch, Guardiola and Arteta share a deep bond that was forged during their time together at City. Arteta played a key role in helping Guardiola guide City to two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups during his three-year stint as assistant coach.

Guardiola has always spoken highly of Arteta’s coaching abilities and leadership qualities, which were evident during his time at City. When Arteta left to join Arsenal, Guardiola was full of praise for him and wished him all the best for his new role.

Since then, Arteta has made significant progress at Arsenal, leading them to an FA Cup victory in his first season in charge. This season, he has taken them to new heights by putting them in contention for the Premier League title.

As both teams prepare for their upcoming clash, it will be interesting to see how Guardiola and Arteta approach the game. While they may be rivals on the pitch, their friendship off it will undoubtedly remain strong regardless of the outcome.

In conclusion, Pep Guardiola’s revelation about his relationship with Mikel Arteta highlights the deep bond that exists between them despite being on opposite sides of the pitch. As Arsenal and Manchester City gear up for their title-deciding clash, it is clear that their mutual respect and admiration for each other will remain unchanged.