You want a war? Now we war!’ – Pep Guardiola warns Man City have been ‘provoked’ into intense Arsenal rivalry after Gabriel comments over Erling Haaland incident

Things have gone up a notch following an ill-tempered draw between the two sides in the Premier League. Speaking after the match, Arsenal defender Gabriel reacted to a ball being thrown at his head by Erling Haaland by saying “it’s a war” and that “it’s normal to have provocative acts in football.” Guardiola has now shared his thoughts and feels his team have been drawn into a more intense rivalry by the Gunners.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  A late goal from John Stones rescued City a 2-2 draw in a feisty game that saw Rodri suffer a season-ending injury and Leando Trossard sent off. Haaland also escaped punishment for throwing a ball at Gabriel’s head, while Stones criticised Arsenal’s “dirty” tactics after the match. Guardiola has now had his say and made it clear the ill feeling between the two sides has not gone away.

  • WHAT GUARDIOLA SAID

    He told reporters: “You want a war? Now we war. Gabriel said it perfectly in the press after the match, so this is a war. We have to provoke the opponent, to push them, and at the end, what can you do? You provoke me, OK, I’m there.”

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    WHAT NEXT

    Guardiola and Mikel Arteta shared a close relationship after working together at Manchester City but are now engaged in a bitter rivalry as managers. The two sides battled it out for the Premier League title last season and are expected to do so again, with their next meeting scheduled for February 1 at the Emirates.