Man City vs Arsenal LIVE SCORE: Trossard makes first start while Pep strong for huge FA Cup tie – latest updates

“It’s a final”

During Thursday’s press conference, Pep Guardiola said: “It’s a different competition, it’s a final.

“It’s more than Arsenal to prove to us what our level is against … a team with 50 points in one leg is the best.

“We have to prove how far away or how close we are. The best way is to reach our best level, otherwise it will be difficult.”

Discussing his relationship with Mikel Arteta, he said: “I’m not suspicious of all my comments about Mikel when he was here. Even if he hasn’t won any titles. The expectation Arsenal demand.

“I know my opinion then, not now with 50 points. I knew it when he was here, his ability. The biggest compliment for Arsenal too because in the bad moments they trust him and hold him.

“I don’t think all the internal decisions were easy. You had to support him for that, you need time and investments for that.

“The results are there. It is a challenge for us to challenge them. That’s the deal for this season.”