Guardiola hailed his side’s display as “fantastic and extraordinary”. Yet he also stressed that, at this crucial stage of the season, “all that matters is winning. We have to win, whatever the cost.”
Yet the Gunners have the slightly easier run-in. Arsenal still face Newcastle, Fulham, West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace, while City must tackle Everton, Brentford, Bournemouth, Palace and Aston Villa. Because Manchester City play first, in Saturday’s 6:15 pm Cup semi-final against Southampton, Arsenal can stretch their lead to six points before their rivals return to league action on 4 May.