‘I don’t care’ – Pep Guardiola makes title claim as Liverpool faces Man City and Arsenal fight
The Premier League title battle appears to be heading for a spectacular conclusion to the season, with all three top contenders picking up wins this weekend. Liverpool’s defeat to Arsenal last weekend prevented the Reds from going eight points clear, and the top three are currently separated by only two points.
Manchester City briefly led after beating Everton in the early kick-off on Saturday, but Liverpool answered with a 3-1 win over Burnley at Anfield. Arsenal, however, delivered the weekend’s results, scoring six goals against West Ham in the London Stadium.
City has emerged as the favourite to retain the crown this season, backed by the return to fitness of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. Haaland scored twice against Everton, with teammate De Bruyne setting him up for the second.
However, Pep Guardiola thinks that the duo will not guarantee City’s title victory, adding that Liverpool and Arsenal will still be confident of finishing first. When asked how dangerous it was for City’s competitors that Haaland and De Bruyne were returning, Guardiola replied, “I don’t care.” I don’t care if it scares people. Because I know some of my coworkers aren’t afraid at all.
“OK, we’re stronger with [De Bruyne and Haaland], but as I already stated, we can play well. However, these types of players help you win games. The first goal is difficult, especially with the right foot and first contact, which is why Erling is the best in the box.
Liverpool is set to face City again at Anfield on March 10, in what might be a deciding match in the title race. The Premier League champion still needs to face Arsenal at the Etihad.
Liverpool laboured against Burnley and were tied at halftime, but Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez scored to secure a crucial victory. Afterward, Klopp suggested that Tottenham and Aston Villa were also in the running, despite the fact that Unai Emery’s team was defeated by Manchester United on Sunday.
He said, “It’s not just the three points [against Burnley]. Momentum cannot be ensured at all times. Nine days ago, we played brilliantly against Chelsea before losing to Arsenal. It is always a different task. If it doesn’t click right away, struggle through it. It was incredibly tough, but the boys fought through it and got three points.
