Guardiola Says “Real Season Starts Now” as Man City Chase Arsenal

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has declared that the “real season” begins now as his side step up their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Before the international break, City cut Arsenal’s lead to four points after a dominant 3-0 victory over Liverpool, while the Gunners dropped points in a 2-2 draw at Sunderland.

Speaking ahead of City’s visit to Newcastle on Saturday, Guardiola said the momentum shift could be significant but warned that it is still early in the campaign.

He stressed the importance of staying close to an “impeccable” Arsenal side that rarely drops points.
“In seasons when we fought with Liverpool, I always felt they wouldn’t drop many points. If a team gets too far ahead, it’s difficult to catch up,” he said. “Nothing is decided in November.”

Guardiola noted that teams typically settle into a consistent rhythm after the final international break of the year.
“Now we’ll be together until March, playing every three or four days. This is when the real season starts,” he said. “The goal is to stay close and reach the final stretch with a chance to fight for the title.”

A win at St. James’ Park would move City to within one point of Arsenal, who host Tottenham on Sunday.

City will, however, be without midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Rodri.
“Everybody is fit except Kova and Rodri,” Guardiola confirmed. “Rodri is improving, but he needs time to recover fully.”

Gabriel sidelined for weeks in blow to Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also delivered bad news, confirming defender Gabriel Magalhaes will miss “weeks” after suffering a thigh injury while on international duty with Brazil.

Gabriel has been crucial to Arsenal’s strong defensive record, featuring in every Premier League match so far.

“It’s a blow because he’s a leader in our back line,” Arteta said. A fresh scan next week will determine a clearer recovery timeline.

Despite the setback, Arteta expressed confidence in Arsenal’s defensive options.