“His absence against us will not make our game against Arsenal a really exciting watch, Halaand told me about the severity of his injury and I’m really sorry for him”- Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola feels sorry for Arsenal’s exceptional and important player ahead of Man City clash as he reveals the ONLY ONE method Arsenal can snatch 3 points from his team
“His absence against us will not make our game against Arsenal a really exciting watch, Halaand told me about the severity of his injury and I’m really sorry for him”- Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola feels sorry for Arsenal’s exceptional and important player ahead of Man City clash as he reveals the ONLY ONE method Arsenal can snatch 3 points from his team
Pep Guardiola has expressed his deep sympathy for Martin Ødegaard, the captain of Arsenal, who is now facing a significant injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for an extended period. Mikel Arteta recently confirmed that Ødegaard’s ankle injury is serious, with reports indicating he will require around eight weeks of treatment to recover.
Although Arteta has several options to fill the gap left by the attacking midfielder, Arsenal has struggled to maintain its creative edge in the two matches Ødegaard has missed thus far—specifically, during their north London derby victory and a goalless draw against Atalanta in the Champions League.
Ødegaard’s absence is particularly impactful as he will miss several pivotal matches, including a crucial encounter dubbed an ‘early title decider’ against Manchester City.
Guardiola expressed his disappointment over not being able to face such an “exceptional” player, stating, “I am so sorry for him. I always prefer to compete against the best and most formidable squads.”
He acknowledged Ødegaard’s role as Arsenal’s captain and recognized his significance as a player, saying, “Everyone knows he is an important and exceptional player.”
Guardiola also noted that Arsenal has continually strengthened their squad over the years, investing heavily in depth to better navigate the challenges of a long season, which often includes injuries, suspensions, and fluctuations in player form.
While Ødegaard is recuperating, Raheem Sterling is set to make his full Arsenal debut against the team where he previously found great success.
The England forward collaborated closely with both Guardiola and Arteta during his time at Manchester City, where he contributed to winning four Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and five League Cups between 2015 and 2022.
Guardiola expressed surprise at Sterling’s loan move to the Emirates on deadline day, acknowledging that Arteta was equally taken aback. He remarked, “I wish him all the best. I’ve often said that all the players who have performed extraordinarily for this club have helped us become who we are today.”
Reflecting on Sterling’s importance, Guardiola stated, “We cannot comprehend the early years of my tenure at Manchester City without Raheem. He has been incredibly significant.” However, he added with a hint of humor, “Of course, I would prefer he doesn’t perform well on Sunday!”
