Pep fears wounded Arsenal
PEP GUARDIOLA fears Arsenal’s miserable form will make them a more dangerous opponent when Manchester City go to the Emirates tomorrow. Victory in London would see third-placed City move 10 points clear of the Gunners, who have lost six of their last nine games in all competitions. Asked if it was a good time to be playing Arsenal, Guardiola said: ‘No. When you lose a lot of games it is a dangerous moment. I would prefer to take Arsenal after a lot of wins. ‘Arsenal are a top team. It’s a long time since we won there. It’s difficult because it’s the Emirates and they are a tough team, trying to be there in the top four.’ Guardiola backed opposite number Arsene Wenger to win over disillusioned fans once his team return to top form. ‘When he goes back to winning, the fans will be happy again. I promise you, 100 per cent,’ he added. ‘All the managers want to win. We are strong when we win and we are weak when we don’t win. ‘I’m pretty sure the fans respect a lot what Arsene Wenger has done and is doing. When Arsene decides to stay and keep going, he believes it is the best solution for Arsenal.’ The City boss thinks Raheem Sterling should be available despite picking up a back injury on England duty. He also revealed Brazilian star Gabriel Jesus could play again this season after making a good recovery from a broken metatarsal. The Premier League ends on May 21 but City can reach the FA Cup final on May 27 with victory over Arsenal in the semi-finals.