Pep Guardiola has dismissed claims that Manchester City overdid their celebrations after beating Arsenal, branding the criticism “stupid” as the Premier League title race tightens.
NOP NIGERIA reports that Man City defeated the Gunners 2-1 on Sunday, a result that could prove decisive in the closing weeks of the Premier League season. The champions can move top of the table if they beat Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday night.
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney had suggested City’s celebrations “were a bit over the top”. Guardiola disagreed strongly.
“When they celebrated, people can say whatever, stupid things they want to say, they celebrated because they know the value of the opponent,” Guardiola said.
“They won and still we are there. How can they not celebrate it? As much as you respect the opponent and the fans of the opponent, celebrate however you want.”
With the title race finely poised, Guardiola admitted the championship could be decided by goal difference if City and Arsenal win all their remaining matches. However, he warned his players against chasing goals at the expense of balance.
“Yes, absolutely. It can happen, but [you] cannot be distracted by scoring a lot of goals,” he said.
“It would be unbalanced, and without balance we’re going to concede a lot. It’s the same question.
“I have the feeling the opponents are going to score a lot, I’d say.
“The rivals are really, really good defensively when we talk mainly about the next opponent.
“So we have to try to go there [Turf Moor], do what you have to do to win. It’s the same thing [as] before Arsenal: What is the game plan, what do you have to do to play? Not the consequences.”
Victory in Lancashire would keep City firmly on course for another dramatic title finish.
