Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, has dismissed suggestions of personal tension with Mikel Arteta, insisting that their relationship remains strong despite limited contact since Arteta left City.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola addressed the evolving dynamic between the two former colleagues, emphasizing that distance and new responsibilities have naturally changed the frequency of their interactions.
"I don't have time to go to London, and I don't think he has time to come to Manchester," Guardiola said. "When we were here [when Arteta was a coach at City] we saw each other five or six hours every day, so the relationship is completely different after his five or six years in London."
The City boss also directly called out attempts to manufacture conflict, noting, "If you are trying to with that question create conflict between myself and Mikel, or Arsenal, I am old enough to notice that."
Guardiola and Arteta worked closely together at City from 2016 to 2019, with Arteta serving as assistant before taking over as head coach at Arsenal. Their professional rapport was widely regarded as strong, with Guardiola praising Arteta’s tactical acumen and leadership skills during their time together.
Despite the close personal and professional relationship, Arsenal and Manchester City remain fierce rivals on the field. The Gunners have finished second to City in several recent Premier League campaigns, intensifying the competitive edge between the clubs.
Guardiola’s comments come ahead of their next high-stakes meeting in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, a match that could have significant implications for domestic silverware and momentum in the title race.
By emphasizing mutual respect and downplaying off-field friction, Guardiola sought to focus attention on the upcoming fixture, reminding fans and the media that on-field competition does not reflect personal animosity between the two managers.
