“I Love That!”- Pep Guardiola Praises Declan Rice’s Defiance Following City’s Victory

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his admiration for Declan Rice’s refusal to concede the Premier League title, despite City’s pivotal 2-1 victory over Arsenal on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The win at the Etihad shifted the momentum of the race significantly. While Arsenal remains top with 70 points, City currently sits on 67 with a crucial game in hand. If Guardiola’s men defeat Burnley this Wednesday, they will leapfrog the Gunners to take the summit on goal difference.

The “Not Done” Mentality

In the immediate aftermath of Sunday’s clash, cameras captured an emotional Declan Rice rallying his teammates, insisting that the title race is “not done.” Rather than dismissing the comment, Guardiola used it as an example of why Arsenal has been such a formidable opponent.

“I love that. I love that,” Guardiola told Sky Sports News. “That’s why Arsenal is there. It shows what Declan Rice means and the mentality Mikel Arteta has instilled. They are competitive, resilient, and they follow the message even in bad moments.”

No Room for Complacency

Guardiola is using Rice’s defiance as a warning to his own squad. With six games remaining for City and five for Arsenal, the Spaniard is adamant that the race will likely go down to the final day.

• The Standing: Arsenal is currently one point ahead on goal difference (70 points to City’s 67).

• The Schedule: City travels to Turf Moor to face Burnley on April 22, a match that could see them take control of the league for the first time in weeks.

• The Message: “If people think because we beat them, the title race is done, Declan Rice showed us that they are still there,” Guardiola added.

The Road to the Finish Line

Despite the high of the 2-1 win—sealed by goals from Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland—Guardiola underscored the need for absolute focus. He reminded his players that despite the “statement” win, the reality is that Arsenal still technically holds the top spot.

“I am happy because we can extend the hope,” he stated. “But don’t lose focus. In three days, we go to Burnley. We have to enjoy the celebration but keep our concentration levels stretched until the very end.”

With both teams fighting for every possible point, the 2025/26 season is proving to be one of the most tightly contested in Premier League history. For City, the goal is a record-extending eleventh English league title; for Arsenal, it is the hope that Rice’s “not done” prophecy comes true.