City are now only six points behind the Gunners - with a game in hand - at the top of the table following their 3-0 victory at Chelsea on Sunday (12.04.26) and the manager is aware that the upcoming clash between the pair has the potential to decide the destiny of the Premier League title.

Guardiola said: "Arsenal is a final. But don't tell me Brentford [on May 9] will be easy.

"We are going to play against a team [Arsenal] that in 49 games lost three games, in Champions League didn't lose once.

"In the Carabao Cup final (where City beat Arsenal 2-0 last month), we were complete underdogs - there is not one person in this country that would bet £1 that we would be much better. Maybe now it's a bit different.

"The respect I have for Arsenal, what they have done the last few years. I know the manager, the players, the quality, how they compete in every circumstance, that's the biggest job we have.

"They have been the best team in this country, in Europe, so far. Beating Arsenal once is so difficult - imagine beating them twice in a few weeks.

"The past was something unique, but we are growing. We have long weeks now we are out of Champions League, but we are more fresh and in training, everyone knows exactly what they have to do."

Playmaker Rayan Cherki inspired City to the three points at Stamford Bridge by setting up two goals and Guardiola believes that the French international can still improve after an impressive debut campaign in English football.

The coach said: "Rayan is an extraordinary talent. The second goal, the pass to Marc [Guéhi].

"The problem for Rayan is sometimes he plays in positions too close to [Gianluigi] Donnarumma - your talent has to be in the final third. Be close to (Erling) Haaland, close to wingers.

"We will bring the ball to you. It's not necessary to come down the pitch.

"He is so young, his impact in the Premier League in his first season ... he is already an extraordinary player.

"He has the desire to be even better. That will be good for City and him."