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Manchester City and Arsenal are primed to renew hostilities

Mikel Arteta has downplayed any lingering tension with Erling Haaland after the Manchester City striker’s infamous “stay humble” remark during Arsenal’s dramatic 2-2 draw at the Etihad earlier this season.

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As the two Premier League title contenders prepare to meet again at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, Arteta insists he has moved on from the heated moment and remains on good terms with Pep Guardiola despite their increasingly fierce rivalry.

Arteta brushes off Haaland’s jibe

Arsenal and Manchester City have been at the heart of the Premier League title race for the past two seasons, with their clashes growing more intense.

Their last meeting saw Haaland confront Arteta at full-time, urging the Arsenal boss to “stay humble” in a heated exchange that also involved Gabriel Jesus.

However, Arteta has now dismissed the incident, saying, “I don’t take anything personally. What happens on the pitch for me and since I’ve been a player stays there. It is full of emotions and things there. I just leave it aside and move on.”

Raya injury concern ahead of Manchester City clash

Ahead of Sunday’s showdown, Arteta provided an injury update on David Raya, revealing that the goalkeeper is a doubt for the match due to a muscular problem.

With loan signing Neto waiting in the wings, a late decision will be made on who starts between the posts against the reigning champions.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s search for a new striker before Monday’s transfer deadline remains uncertain despite Arteta acknowledging the need for a signing upfront.

The club had a bid rejected for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and are now weighing up whether to return with an improved offer or pursue alternative targets.