Pep Guardiola already told Mikel Arteta what to do amid Arsenal call on Liverpool guard of honor

Pep Guardiola already told Mikel Arteta what to do amid Arsenal call on Liverpool guard of honor

 

As Arsenal prepare to face Liverpool this weekend, one question has sparked debate: Should the Gunners give their title rivals a guard of honor if Jurgen Klopp’s side clinch the Premier League before the match?

 

Interestingly, Mikel Arteta may already have his answer—from none other than his mentor, Pep Guardiola.

 

Back in 2022, when Manchester City were set to face Liverpool in a tight title race, Guardiola was asked if his team would offer a guard of honor should Liverpool win it first. His response was firm: “No.”

 

Guardiola’s reasoning was simple—respect is shown through performance, not just gestures. Arteta, having worked closely with Pep, may follow the same principle. Arsenal are still fighting for the title themselves, and a guard of honor for Liverpool could send the wrong message at a crucial stage of the season.

 

While traditions like these are part of football’s fabric, the competitive fire between top teams often overrides formalities. Arteta, like Guardiola, may decide that the best way to respect Liverpool is by beating them on the pitch—not lining up to applaud.

 

One thing’s for sure: If Arsenal do opt against the gesture, Guardiola’s influence will be undeniable. The title race is far from over, and Arteta will want his team to prove it.

 

What do you think—should Arsenal give Liverpool a guard of honor if required? Or is it time to move on from the tradition? Let us know your thoughts!