Pep Guardiola makes Arsenal Claims after Man City’s Carabao Cup semi-final win

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola praises Arsenal as best team in the world after booking a Wembley final meeting following Newcastle victory.

Pep Guardiola has hailed Arsenal as the best team in Europe after Manchester City booked their place in the Carabao Cup final with a commanding semi-final victory over Newcastle United.

City completed a 5-1 aggregate win against the reigning holders on Wednesday night, following up their 2-0 first-leg success at St James’ Park with a 3-1 win at the Etihad Stadium. Omar Marmoush starred in the second leg, scoring twice to put the tie firmly beyond Eddie Howe’s side.

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Speaking after the match, Guardiola turned his attention to City’s next opponents and delivered glowing praise for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, whom they will face at Wembley on March 22.

“It’s a pleasure to play against Arsenal,” Guardiola said. “Right now they are the best team in Europe, maybe even the world.”

City Power Past Newcastle to Reach Wembley

Manchester City asserted control early in the second leg, with Marmoush opening the scoring in the 17th minute before doubling his tally shortly before half-time. Newcastle briefly threatened a comeback when Anthony Gordon pulled one back after the interval, but Antoine Semenyo’s late strike ensured City progressed comfortably.

Goalkeeper James Trafford impressed across both legs, making several key saves to frustrate Newcastle and preserve City’s dominance throughout the tie.

The result sends Guardiola’s side into their fifth Carabao Cup final in the last decade, giving the City manager the opportunity to win a record-breaking fifth title in the competition.

The final will add another chapter to the evolving rivalry between Guardiola and Arteta, who worked closely together at Manchester City between 2016 and 2019. Their relationship has not been without tension in recent seasons, particularly following disputes over Arsenal’s tactical approach during last year’s Premier League title race.

Despite that history, Guardiola made clear his admiration for Arteta’s work in north London, with Arsenal currently leading the Premier League and already securing their own place in the Carabao Cup final after eliminating Chelsea.

Guardiola also confirmed that James Trafford will start in goal at Wembley, but admitted concern over Rodri, who was forced off during the semi-final second leg.

“I don’t know how serious it is yet,” Guardiola said. “But when Rodri comes off, it’s always a worry.”

The City boss additionally revealed plans to lobby the EFL over the eligibility of January signing Marc Guehi, who is currently ineligible for the final due to competition rules.

Arsenal vs Manchester City Final Looms Large

The Wembley showdown will revive memories of the 2018 Carabao Cup final, where Guardiola’s City defeated Arsenal 3-0 to secure his first major trophy in English football.

With both sides locked in a fierce Premier League title race this season, the final now carries added significance and could serve as a psychological marker ahead of the run-in.

Guardiola’s words have set the tone — but on March 22, Arsenal will have the chance to prove that Europe’s “best team” label truly belongs to them.

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