Guardiola Explains Tactical Shift Against Arsenal: “I Changed Style Because They Were Better”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered insight into why he adopted a markedly more conservative approach in their recent 1–1 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League.
Reflecting on the match, Guardiola admitted that Arsenal had outperformed his side on the day, forcing City into a more defensive posture.
He denied that this change signalled a permanent shift in his philosophy, insisting instead that it was a reaction to the strength of the opponent and the evolving dynamics of the contest.
Guardiola went further to stress that the core principles of his tactical outlook, possession, pressure, and attacking intent, remain unchanged.
He asserted that any deviation from the norm, such as deeper defending or more counterattacks, is not because City are experimenting with a new identity, but because sometimes opponents force constraints on how a team can play.
According to Guardiola, his side’s reduced possession, reportedly around 33 % at Emirates Stadium, did not stem from a deliberate abandonment of style, but rather from necessity in a challenging match.
He also pushed back against criticism that he’s become more defensive, calling such judgments oversimplified.
Ultimately, Guardiola maintains confidence that as the season progresses and circumstances shift (injuries, form, opponent tactics), City will be able to reassert the playing style that has defined his tenure, but flexibility, he suggests, is part of elite management.