The two sides played to a thrilling 2-2 draw in the Premier League last Sunday, with City equalizing dramatically in the final moments after Arsenal had been reduced to 10 men and had defended valiantly throughout the second half.
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Leandro Trossard received a second yellow card for kicking the ball away just before halftime, leading to accusations that Arsenal resorted to “dark arts” in their efforts to secure three points.
During the match, Arsenal spent a total of nine minutes and four seconds taking goal kicks, the longest by any team in a Premier League game this season. The average delay for Arsenal’s restarts—including goal kicks, throw-ins, and free kicks—was 42.7 seconds, surpassed only by the Aston Villa versus Wolves match, which averaged 47.3 seconds.
Several City players have criticized Arsenal’s tactics, and there were also disputes on the pitch. However, Arteta maintains that any on-field disagreements will not harm his friendship with Guardiola.
“I love him [Guardiola]. I respect him and admire him. I admire his team and everything he does,” Arteta said.
“This is sport. One thing is our professional, another is my personal relationship. If that has to be damaged because we play against each other, then I wouldn’t talk to him anymore!
“That’s not the relationship I consider both of us have. Sport will never get in my way for a personal relationship, for sure.”
Asked if the accusations aimed at Arsenal could affect it, Arteta added: “It depends. If it’s true, but if it’s not, and you show your integrity, do what you think is right, it doesn’t have to.
“It’s opinions. If you don’t like them, you shouldn’t be sitting where I am.
“It’s simple, don’t take it personally, make sure you handle the things you care about in the right way, and I really care about that relationship. It’s the same as a lot of staff and players I’ve spent very important years of my life working with.”
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