Pep Guardiola has downplayed Manchester City's 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Arsenal, insisting it won't affect the Premier League title race. Nico O'Reilly scored both goals in the second half at Wembley, securing Guardiola's fifth Carabao Cup trophy in ten years. The win came just weeks before the two teams meet again at the Etihad on April 19.

Despite Arsenal's disappointment in the cup final, Guardiola believes it could actually refocus Mikel Arteta's side. City sits nine points behind Arsenal with a game in hand, making the April 19 clash crucial. Guardiola said he'd prefer to be nine points ahead in the title race, suggesting Arsenal will be more determined when they visit Manchester.

The 55-year-old manager celebrated both goals enthusiastically at Wembley, sprinting down the touchline after O'Reilly's second header. This marks Guardiola's 19th trophy at City, though his future beyond this summer remains uncertain. He emphasized the difficulty of winning any title and praised his team's ability to overcome Arsenal's early pressure.