Pep Guardiola has denied that a rift has developed in his relationship with Mikel Arteta despite a number of bruising encounters between his Manchester City team and Arsenal.

Arteta faces a number of big calls when it comes to his team selection. Myles Lewis-Skelly, who actually made his debut in the reverse fixture at the Etihad in September, is available after his red card from last weekend’s win at Wolves was overturned.

Pep Guardiola insisted his relationship with Mikel Arteta is “exceptional” as he shrugged off suggestions Manchester City ’s clash with Arsenal on Sunday is a grudge match. The Catalan also said City may carry on spending, despite paying out £122m in the January transfer window to bring three players to the Etihad Stadium.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta insists there is no rift with his old friend Pep Guardiola ahead of the Gunners' latest high-stakes battle against Manchester City on Sunday.Arsenal cannot afford to slip up against City as they try to close the gap on leaders Liverpool,

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has voiced his thoughts on Pep Guardiola's situation at Manchester City, suggesting the high standards he set leave little room for him to impress further. Despite being Premier League champions for four consecutive years and eyeing a record-extending fifth,

Arsenal welcome Manchester City to Emirates Stadium on February 2 in Mikel Arteta's and Pep Guardiola's first meeting since their dramatic 2-2 draw in September.

Arsenal host Manchester City in the Premier League this weekend as the Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta rivalry is renewed.