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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has provided an update on Phil Foden’s fitness ahead of the club’s FA Cup clash with Arsenal.
City and Arsenal are competing in a head-to-head battle for the Premier League title, with the Gunners currently five points ahead of Guardiola’s side with a game in hand.
However, the two teams’ first encounter of the season will be in the FA Cup fourth round.
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Arsenal overcame City in their previous FA Cup meeting and will know a repeat result will likely affect their rival's confidence, with the sides due to meet again less than three weeks later.
In the build-up to tonight's game, Guardiola issued an update on the fitness of England star Foden, who has been out with a foot injury.
Guardiola on Foden
Foden missed City’s 3-0 win over Wolves as a result of the knock he received in the club’s defeat to bitter rivals Manchester United.
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However, Guardiola confirmed the 22-year-old is recovering well and could feature in the crucial FA Cup clash.
Asked about Foden’s injury, Guardiola said: “It is getting better, we have training this afternoon.”
The Spaniard added that he had no further injury concerns ahead of the game against Arsenal.
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When asked about the condition of the rest of the squad, Guardiola replied: “Good.”
Guardiola on title race
Naturally, Guardiola was asked if the game’s result could have a bearing on the title race. However, the manager insisted: “It’s a different competition.
“It’s the FA Cup. It’s a final. And of course, it’s more than Arsenal - it’s about proving ourselves – how is our level?
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“When a team makes 50 points in one leg, it’s because they have been the best and they are.
“So we have to prove ourselves, how far away or how close we are and the best way to notice is to perform at our best level.
“Otherwise against a team at that moment, it will be difficult.”
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Football, Manchester City, Arsenal, Phil Foden, Pep Guardiola, FA Cup