Pep Guardiola hid his frustration as Arsenal failed to hold onto their lead at the Etihad.
The Gunners’ bubble was ultimately punctured during injury when John Stones of Manchester City hammered in a late equaliser. Leandro Trossard was adjudged to have delayed the restart, meaning Mikel Arteta’s team had to fight the second half without a man.
The Catalan, who seemed to be taking a jab at Arteta, became enraged as the Gunners attempted to hold onto their advantage. “I don’t know how many [Arsenal] players went down with cramp, but that can of course happen in a demanding game,” he grumbled.
According to the Mirror, Stones’ thrilling equaliser in the 98th minute was made possible by Michael Oliver’s addition of seven minutes of added time, which was prolonged after Jurrien Timber of Arsenal was substituted with what appeared to be cramps.
“We crossed and crossed and had Ruben [Dias], Manuel [Akanji], Erling [Haaland] but when you cross they have Declan Rice, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori, so it is so difficult,” Guardiola stated. There were ten participants present. In the end, we received our just desserts.”
When asked about Arsenal’s supposed time-wasting antics, Pep said, “Maybe I would have done the same because it is with ten men.” “You need to find out what Mikel [Arteta] used as a strategy.
“They went for the second balls after they were successful with the long balls into Kai Havertz, who is quite strong. We ultimately had the opportunity, were patient, and achieved our objective. That’s it.
Despite being a man down, Arteta was thrilled with his team’s effort. Although neither team has lost, City overtook Arsenal in the top spot following the tie.
“I’m really happy with the team. The game was played in a challenging environment. Playing against the world’s finest team,” the manager of Arsenal smiled during Match of the Day.
“We were ahead 2-1 after what had happened; it was a different story, and I would rather not comment on that [Leandro Trossard’s red card].”
“Playing 56 minutes at the Etihad Stadium with 10 men is already a miracle. What we have done is astounding.”