Plenty of narratives surround the clash between Arsenal and Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round, ranging from a dress rehearsal for the title race in the Premier League to a reunion between Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola. The Gunners boss was assistant coach to his opposite number for a few seasons at the Etihad Stadium.
The Spaniard won plenty of trophies in his time under his compatriot but in 2019 took the large leap to taking over at the Emirates Stadium. The rebuild has taken time and plenty of backing but this season is showing that process bear fruit as Arsenal sit top of the table.
With a title challenge on the cards against Guardiola, Arteta appeared glad to be in the fight against an old friend, telling reporters: "I always hoped that that was going to be the case one day and it’s happening this season. That’s not going to change any friendship, the moments that we have, how important he is in my life, how important he is in my profession. We’re both willing to win and defend our clubs in any way and that’s always been the case since day one."
