There has been a lot of criticism around Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola allowing the likes of Oleksandr Zinchenko, Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus to leave only to join rival clubs. However, Guardiola’s explanation was very straightforward as he shared how they had the choice to continue their career in a club of their choice.
Both ZInchenko and Gabriel Jesus have played significant roles in helping Arsenal reach the top of the Premier League table. The Gunners are playing a sensational brand of football and a lot of that credit goes to their manager Mikel Arteta who brought these players to the Emirates despite not playing in the Champions League. The decisions were on point as he believed that Jesus would change the dynamics of the team and Zinchenko would be exceptional for his team’s overall growth.
Jesus has been the bright light in attack for Arsenal as he has scored five goals and have also registered seven assists in 16 games. His presence upfront has made Arsenal a very dominant team. Whereas Zinchenko has also been very impactful with the versatility that he provides.
Recently Guardiola shared the reaction of some of his former players leaving Manchester City and joining Arsenal or Chelsea. He shared how the players have their choices and he had just respected their calls of joining other top clubs.
“Every player is different. I think the guys gave us what they gave us, like Raheem, Oleks and Gabby. What they gave us, they deserve to choose where they want to play. If they don’t want to go to Arsenal or Chelsea they would stay here,” Manchester City boss opened up on the departure of some of his players.
Guardiola further added some all three of the players were of high quality and belonged to a top club. He also revealed that he did not have a chat with Jesus as he understood that the situation is different for different people. “But if they stay here why do we have to say you cannot be there? I think they did belong at a big club, at big clubs when you want to play you fight for them and go wherever you want. I didn’t chat to him (Jesus). He can do what he wants. Every situation is different,” he concluded.
Arsenal are leading the Premier League title race whereas reigning champions Manchester City are chasing them with full force. While the Gunners are sitting with 31 points from 12 games, manchester City are right at their heels with 29 points in second position.
