Pep Guardiola aims dig at Arsenal's tactics after goalless draw with Man City

Pep Guardiola offered a backhanded compliment to Arsenal after their 0-0 draw with Manchester City on Sunday.

City managed 72% possession throughout the game but just one shot on target - one fewer than Arsenal at the other end - as they were held to a frustrating draw.

The 0-0 scoreline saw City unable to climb to the top of the Premier League table, while Arsenal now sit two points behind current leaders Liverpool, and Guardiola hinted at frustration towards the Gunners' setup after the game.

"I recognised my team, I'm so proud. Arsenal dropped [deep] really well," he said. "It was difficult to find [passes] in the tight spaces. The low block was really difficult.

"Our intention was there. They defended so well in the low block with a lot of people, surrounding Erling [Haaland]. Be patient and find the pass. There are different ways to do it.

"They did well with the press and then after the block. It doesn't matter how many players you defend with, the main target is to not concede. I only control my team and the rest I don't know."

Despite being unable to defeat Arsenal, Guardiola insisted the battle for the title is still on as he looks to claim the Premier League trophy for the second time in a row.

He said: "Arsenal is an exceptional team, well managed and the players are good [but] my point of view is we are still the team. Many things we can be better, but I am satisfied. I said to the team, don't be sad.

"We would not be here at semi-final of FA Cup, quarter-final of Champions League and fighting for Premier League title [if we are not the team]. We want to win but we are there. It was a battle. It was a tight game, I see the way they train.

"When we were top we were favourites because it was in our hands but now it is not."

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