Pep Guardiola has challenged Manchester City to chase down what he described as the best team in the world — Premier League leaders Arsenal — as he mounted a defiant defence of his players following a bruising week.

City were comfortably beaten by local rivals Manchester United last weekend before suffering one of the biggest shocks in Champions League history with a defeat away to Norway’s Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday.

Those results mean Guardiola’s side are still without a league win in 2026, allowing Arsenal to stretch their lead at the top of the table to seven points.

Despite the dip in form, Guardiola insisted his squad remains “extraordinary” and capable of responding, with City still competing on four fronts.

“Absolutely, they are the best team in the world right now,” Guardiola said of Arsenal, who have also won all seven of their Champions League matches this season.
“Look at the Champions League, the Premier League, the FA Cup, the Carabao Cup — they are the best team right now.

“Hopefully we can stay close, keep improving and give ourselves the chance to catch them.

“I have an extraordinary team, an extraordinary group of players. We are all together. We are a fantastic football team — I have no doubts about that.”

City’s struggles have been compounded by injuries to key defenders Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, while Nico Gonzalez also remains sidelined.

However, the recent signing of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace is expected to ease the defensive strain, with the England international set to make his debut against Wolves on Saturday.

“It’s going to help us because Marc’s experience is exceptional,” Guardiola added.
“Considering the absence of central defenders, it’s really good for us.”

Matheus Nunes could return after missing the last two matches through illness, offering Guardiola another boost as City look to regain momentum.