Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his admiration for Declan Rice's statement that the title race is far from over, despite Arsenal's recent defeat to City. Following their 2-1 win over the league leaders, City can potentially take the top spot on goal difference if they secure a victory over Burnley on Wednesday.
Rice's post-match comments, captured on video, showcased his determination and refusal to concede the title, earning Guardiola's respect. In an interview with Sky Sports News, Guardiola commended Rice's mentality, highlighting the competitive spirit of Arsenal.
He noted that this attitude is a key factor in the team's success, including their unbeaten run in the Champions League. Guardiola also touched on the incident involving Gabriel and Erling Haaland, where the Arsenal defender avoided a red card for an apparent headbutt. The City boss drew comparisons to similar incidents in the past, suggesting that Haaland's restraint may have influenced the referee's decision. With the title race heating up, Guardiola emphasized the importance of winning games, rather than focusing solely on goal difference.
He encouraged his team to create scoring opportunities while maintaining a strong defensive presence.