Pep Guardiola praised Arsenal as “the best team in Europe and maybe the world” after Manchester City defeated defending champions Newcastle United to set a Carabao Cup final against the Gunners.
Man City defeated Newcastle 2-0 at St. James’ Park to take control of their semi-final match, and then finished the job with a 3-1 triumph at the Etihad Stadium.
Anthony Elanga gave Newcastle a consolation goal in the second half, but Omar Marmoush’s quick brace and Tijjani Reijnders’ strike put City ahead 3-0 in the first 33 minutes.
Arsenal will play City in the Carabao Cup on March 22 after defeating London rivals Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate in their semi-final.
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Guardiola challenged his players to be “ready” to take on the finest team in the world, not only in Europe, and stated that he was “looking forward” to facing his old aide Mikel Arteta in a big final.
After an impeccable campaign, Arsenal are still aiming for a spectacular quadruple this season as they pursue their first Premier League title since 2004 and Champions League triumph.
Guardiola Lauds Arsenal
“Hopefully, we arrive all good, all fit in March to compete against an exceptional, top-class team,” Guardiola said after eliminating Carabao Cup holders Newcastle as quoted by The Metro.
“Hopefully, we arrive fit, fine, well, everybody ready. I’m looking forward to that. That is all.
“It will be good. You have to live this experience. The first title we won here was in the Carabao Cup. When you win something, it helps to win more.
“It’s a pleasure to play against Arsenal, the best team right now in Europe and maybe the world.”
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