"They're pretenders..." - Noel Gallagher rips into Arsenal after Man City defeat as Liverpool comparison made

Former Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher has ripped into Arsenal after their heavy defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday.

Premier League leaders Arsenal travelled to the Etihad in search of victory, with the Gunners needing three points in order to secure their position at the top of the table.

However, the evening did not go quite according to plan, as City ran rampant, coming away comprehensive 4-1 winners.

Goals from Kevin De Bruyne, John Stones and Erling Haaland sealed the victory, with Rob Holding's consolation offering little comfort for Gunners fans.

Mikel Arteta has gone toe-to-toe with former colleague Pep Guardiola all season, pushing City to their very limits.

But the occasion looked to get the better of them, with Arsenal's title-hopes rapidly fading away.

Notorious Manchester City supporter Gallagher did not hold back in his assessment of the Gunners' performance, labelling them 'pretenders'.

What did he say?

Speaking after the game, Gallagher revealed he expected more from the Gunners, insisting they have blown their chance at the title.

"I was pretty disappointed in Arsenal. They come up here as contenders and did nothing," Gallagher told talkSPORT.

"They didn't even want to play the game in the first 20 minutes. They did nothing. And my lot, I got to say, they just stamped on them.

"We've seen the governors tonight and a load of kids who were pretenders, and that's it.

Arsenal have had a track record of producing fast starts this season, scoring inside the opening half hour against both West Ham and Liverpool.

However, it was quite the opposite against Manchester City, with De Bruyne putting his side in front inside seven minutes.

"I was expecting Arsenal to fly out of the blocks and give Ederson no time on the ball," Gallagher admitted.

"But they stood there and were letting them [City] kick it around the six-yard box."

The 55-year-old went on to compare Arsenal's performance to Liverpool's, citing the difference in attitude between the two teams.

"There's a difference. None of us particularly like Liverpool when they come to City, right. But I tell you what, they play like champions and it's life or death.

"Arsenal come up there and they've been giving it the big one for the last few weeks, they did nothing!

"They were an embarrassment. That's their chance gone and see you later."