Manchester City icon Sergio Aguero has refused to write off Arsenal in this season’s Premier League title race, insisting the Gunners are finally made of sterner stuff.
“They Are Different Now”: Aguero Backs Arsenal to Hold Off City
The north London side currently sits five points clear at the top of the table after thrashing Tottenham 4-1 in the derby.
While City holds a game in hand and appear to be building their usual ominous end-of-season momentum, Aguero warns that Mikel Arteta’s men are different from the teams that have fallen short in recent campaigns.
The Argentine, who won five Premier League trophies during his time at the Etihad, believes Arsenal no longer suffer from the mental fragility that plagued them in the past. He points to a squad that has matured significantly.
“It’s not a question of a weak mentality. Not now,” Aguero stated.
“They have a very complete, balanced squad with much more experience than in the recent past.
They have been through this before and narrowly missed out. Today you can see they have a stronger mentality. The young players have grown up.”
Aguero was quick to praise Arteta’s transformative impact, highlighting how the Spaniard has built a solid and resilient outfit.
He acknowledged the significance of Arsenal potentially ending their long wait for a league title.
“Arteta has proven himself to be a great manager,” Aguero explained.
“He has built a solid team that knows how to play and is now always in contention. I think Arsenal fans will want him to stay for a long time.”
While City’s thrilling 4-1 victory over Newcastle last weekend sent a clear signal to the league, Aguero stressed that his former side cannot afford to relax.
The clash between the two titans at the Etihad in mid-April looks increasingly decisive.
“It’s important to remember that match against Arsenal,” he added. “It’s a good opportunity to take points off them, but first there are the previous matches.
City has been very consistent, always fighting at the top. We keep up the pressure. We’ve seen in recent years that City never gives up.”
Aguero’s warning serves as a reality check for those expecting City to simply steamroll to another title, acknowledging that this Arsenal side has the mentality to fight until the very end.
