Pep Guardiola insists Burnley will not simply roll over against Arsenal despite their relegation already being confirmed, as Manchester City continue hoping for one final twist in the Premier League title race.
Arsenal head into their meeting with Burnley knowing victory would move them five points clear at the top and place them within touching distance of a first Premier League title since 2004.
Manchester City, meanwhile, remain in pursuit and know any dropped points from Mikel Arteta’s side would hand them a huge opportunity ahead of their own clash with Bournemouth.
Although many expect Arsenal to win comfortably against a relegated side, Guardiola made clear he sees things differently.
Guardiola expects Burnley to compete fully
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s meeting with Bournemouth, Guardiola expressed confidence that Burnley would approach the game with full commitment regardless of their league position.
“Here in England the teams always do their best.”
The Manchester City manager also pointed toward recent examples involving other sides continuing to compete despite having little left to play for.
“All the teams will do their best to win.”
Guardiola left little doubt regarding his expectations.
“I don’t have any doubts they will try.”
Manchester City still believe
Despite relying on Arsenal slipping up, Manchester City continue behaving like a team expecting the title race to remain alive.
Having followed City closely throughout recent seasons, one characteristic repeatedly visible under Guardiola has been an unwillingness to mentally surrender title battles before mathematics makes it impossible.
That mindset has frequently proven valuable.
Rodri recently expressed similar thoughts, referencing City’s own dramatic experiences during previous title races and insisting late twists remain possible.
| Premier League title race | Current situation |
|---|---|
| Arsenal position | 1st |
| Manchester City position | 2nd |
| Gap between teams | 2 points |
| Arsenal next fixture | Burnley (H) |
| City next fixture | Bournemouth (A) |
source: Premier League standings – 16 May 2026
Guardiola receives fitness boost
There was also positive news for Manchester City ahead of the Bournemouth fixture.
Guardiola confirmed that he currently has a fully fit squad available for selection.
Rodri could potentially start consecutive matches after recovering from a groin issue, while rotation options remain available across several positions.
From the closing weeks of Manchester City’s campaign, squad depth has again become a major strength as the team continue balancing multiple objectives.
However, before focusing entirely on Bournemouth, City supporters may first find themselves paying close attention to events at the Emirates.
Because despite Arsenal’s strong position, Guardiola clearly believes the title story is not over yet.
Key Points
- Pep Guardiola expects Burnley to compete strongly against Arsenal
- Manchester City need Arsenal to drop points
- Arsenal can move five points clear with victory
- Guardiola confirmed he has a fully fit squad available
- Rodri could start again after recovering from injury
What’s next
Arsenal host Burnley before Manchester City travel to Bournemouth in fixtures that could dramatically shape the destination of the Premier League title.
City can only keep applying pressure and hope Burnley create an unexpected twist.
Will Burnley hand Manchester City one last chance or are Arsenal too close to let it slip now?
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