PEP GUARDIOLA has sensationally claimed Manchester City WILL drop points in the title run in, handing Arsenal a massive lifeline in the tightest Premier League race in years.
The City boss spoke after watching his side claw to within two points of the Gunners with a hard fought win over Newcastle. The bookies have installed his relentless machine as favourites to pinch the title again, leaving Mikel Arteta’s men bracing for another dose of heartbreak after three straight seasons as bridesmaids.
But Guardiola, in a moment of rare candour, has poured cold water on the idea that his side will simply steamroller everyone between now and May.
“I promise you, honestly, many things are going to happen,” he declared. “I have the feeling that we are not going to win all the games.
“I don’t know about Arsenal, but I have the feeling we are not going to win all the games. This is my feeling, because the FA Cup will come, the Champions League will come, travels…”
The City chief pointed to the gruelling schedule that awaits, the small matter of chasing glory on three fronts, with the Carabao Cup final also lurking. Throw in international breaks and the inevitable injuries, and Guardiola reckons there’s plenty of twists still to come.
It’s a far cry from the usual mantra coming out of the Etihad. These are a side who made a habit of winning every single game down the stretch, memorably pipping Arsenal last season despite the Gunners losing just one of their last 18.
But this campaign feels different. City haven’t looked quite as invincible, and Guardiola knows it.
For Arteta, the hope is that his squad, arguably the deepest in the league this term can cope with the demands better than most. While City lean on the same core of superstars, the Gunners have bodies to spare.
Whether that’s enough to finally get over the line remains to be seen. But if Guardiola’s fears are realised, this one’s going all the way.
