Premier League: Guardiola Urges Manchester City to Chase Arsenal Down in Title Race
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has called on his side to maintain pressure in the Premier League title race by winning all their remaining fixtures as the season enters its final stretch. City host Brentford this weekend at the Etihad Stadium, just days after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Everton slowed their momentum in the chase for top spot. The result has handed Arsenal a slight advantage in the race for the title. Arsenal currently sit five points clear, although they have played one more game than City, leaving Guardiola’s side with a narrow but realistic path to close the gap. Speaking ahead of the Brentford clash, Guardiola made it clear that City’s focus must remain on consistency and maximum points.“Put pressure on Arsenal by winning our games. That’s all we have to do. All we can do,” he said during his pre-match press conference on Thursday, May 8. The Spanish manager admitted the draw against Everton was a setback but insisted the team cannot afford to dwell on missed opportunities as the title race reaches its decisive phase. Attention has also turned to the possible return of key midfielder Rodri, who has missed City’s last three matches due to injury. The Spanish international has been out since the 2-1 victory over Arsenal on April 19 and is currently undergoing a late fitness assessment. “We will see this afternoon,” Guardiola said when asked about Rodri’s availability. He added that the squad has had to cope in his absence over recent months, stressing that any decision on his return would depend on his level of readiness. City now face a crucial run-in where any dropped points could effectively end their hopes of retaining the Premier League crown, while Arsenal look to capitalise on their advantage at the top of the table.
Marshall Bassey
May 08, 2026
