Pep Guardiola has denied that a rift has developed in his relationship with Mikel Arteta despite a number of bruising encounters between his Manchester City team and Arsenal.

Pep Guardiola insisted his relationship with Mikel Arteta is “exceptional” as he shrugged off suggestions Manchester City ’s clash with Arsenal on Sunday is a grudge match. The Catalan also said City may carry on spending, despite paying out £122m in the January transfer window to bring three players to the Etihad Stadium.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has voiced his thoughts on Pep Guardiola's situation at Manchester City, suggesting the high standards he set leave little room for him to impress further. Despite being Premier League champions for four consecutive years and eyeing a record-extending fifth,