Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has said he would ‘prefer’ not to compete with Pep Guardiola for the Premier League title.
The two Spaniards started their playing careers together at Barcelona as youngsters and Arteta left his role as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City to become Arsenal manager in 2019.
The Gunners are currently top of the table, five points above defending champions City with one game less.
“It’s a weird feeling,” Arteta said.
As part of City’s coaching staff, Arteta won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two EFL Cups.
“I really want the best for him, and when you challenge someone like that, there’s something in between,” he added.
Although he had to face his friend, Arteta savored how Arsenal now compete with City for trophies.
“I always hoped it would one day and it’s happening this season,” said the 40-year-old former Gunners midfielder.
“It won’t change any friendship, the times we have, how important he is in my life, how important he is in my profession.
“We are both ready to win and defend our clubs in any way and that has always been the case since day one.
“I’d rather do it with someone else to be fair.”
Arsenal visit City in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday – the first of three fixtures between the sides this season, with their Premier League fixtures scheduled for February 15 and April 26.
Arteta led the Gunners to a record 14th FA Cup success in his first season in charge in 2019-20.
And he said the draw at the Etihad could be a game-breaking game for both clubs this season.
“It’s a competition that is very important to us, very attached to our club and our history and that will define a moment that is certain,” added Arteta.
Arsenal signed Belgian striker Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Polish defender Jakub Kiwior from Spezia Calcio during the January transfer window.
Arteta said they could still sign a midfielder this month as well, with Mohamed Elneny ruled out indefinitely with a knee injury.
“We need more cover in midfield, ideally if we can,” he added. “In this market, it’s quite complicated to do that.
“The most important thing is that we get the performance and time on the pitch that we need, with the players we have who are already very good.”
