What did he mean? Guardiola asks Arteta to explain unclear comments about Manchester City

For nearly two weeks, hearings have been ongoing in the case against Manchester City regarding violations of Financial Fair Play regulations. The process is expected to be lengthy, and even before it began, several figures in the football world started commenting on the matter.

Arsenal's head coach, Mikel Arteta, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City, also weighed in. However, Arteta's remarks were somewhat ambiguous, prompting Guardiola to urge him to be more precise in his statements.

• Also read: "Now we are at war." Guardiola on the growing tension between Manchester City and Arsenal

Details: Ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup match against Bolton, Arteta was asked about the allegations against Manchester City. He responded by stating that he had spent four years at the club and possessed information.

"I was there [at Manchester City] for four years. I have all the information, so I know, trust me."

This comment did not sit well with City boss Pep Guardiola. He felt that Arteta should have been clearer, as his words could be interpreted in multiple ways.

• Also read: "I'm happy it's starting on Monday" - Pep Guardiola on City's FFP trial

Quote: "Next time, Mikel will have to be more precise about what exactly he means.

He said he was here for four years and knows exactly what happened. Does this have to do with the ongoing process concerning the 115 allegations? Maybe he knows something about it? Or maybe he meant, 'I don’t know'?

I hope the question will be asked, and he’ll be able to answer precisely what he meant," Guardiola’s words were quoted by BBC.

Reminder: The hearing regarding Manchester City is being held privately, a decision that has already drawn criticism from Premier League clubs. The process is expected to take around ten weeks before a verdict is reached. If found guilty, City could face exclusion not only from the Premier League but also from other top divisions.

It’s important to note that Arteta’s remarks should not be seen as an attempt to create conflict with Guardiola or Manchester City. A few days after his initial comments, during a pre-match press conference before facing Leicester on Friday, he clarified his stance:

"I love Pep [Guardiola], I respect him, and I admire him. I admire his team and everything he does.

This is sport. One thing is our profession; another is our personal relationship. If our relationship were to sour because one of us draws while the other wins, or because of how many times they've beaten us, I wouldn't be speaking to him anymore.

I don't think either of us has that kind of relationship. Sport will never affect personal relationships, that’s for sure."