Pep Guardiola has hailed Arsenal as "the best team in Europe and perhaps the world" after Manchester City secured their spot in the Carabao Cup final. City will face the Gunners in the showpiece event, having eliminated holders Newcastle.
The 'Citizens' had all but sealed their qualification in the first leg, winning 2-0 at St James' Park. A commanding 3-1 victory in the return leg at the Etihad secured their ticket to the final.
Goals from Omar Marmoush and Ryders gave City an early lead within the first 30 minutes. In the Carabao Cup final, scheduled for March 22nd, Guardiola's side will go head-to-head with Arsenal, who overcame Chelsea with a 4-2 aggregate score in their semi-final clash.
Following the match, Guardiola expressed his eagerness to face his former assistant, Mikel Arteta, in a major final. He urged his players to be fully prepared to compete against a top-tier opponent.
Arsenal, on the other hand, are enjoying an exceptional season, vying for their first Premier League title since 2004, while also making significant strides in the Champions League.
"I hope we are all fit and in form by March to compete against an excellent, top-level team... I'm really looking forward to it. It's a joy to play against Arsenal, currently the best team in Europe and perhaps the world," Pep Guardiola stated.