The tests keep coming for Arsenal as the Gunners head to Manchester on Friday evening to challenge Manchester City in the FA Cup.

It’s a test for Mikel Arteta’s side with a first taste of facing the champions this season, in what’s set up so far to be a top two challenge for the remainder of the campaign.

The Arsenal boss is a scholar of Pep Guardiola as we’re all frequently reminded; however, the Spaniard has had the upper hand so far in the Premier League with Arsenal sitting five points clear of City.

Arteta spoke to the media ahead of Arsenal’s cup showdown with City, speaking on his relationship with Guardiola amidst the subtle battle for the title.

“It’s a strange feeling. I want the best for him and when you are challenging with someone like this, something comes in between that. I always hoped that was going to be the case one day, and it’s happening this season.”

Although the two have not met yet this season, it’s been a two-horse race for a moment now, with Arsenal leading the pack and not showing any sign of slowing down to allow City to counter.

Arteta continued to explain how despite his close relationship with Guardiola, his focus is on succeeding with Arsenal and ultimately beating Pep to the top.

“That’s not going to change any friendship, the moments that we have, how important he is in my life, how important he is in my profession. We’re both willing to win and defend our clubs in any way and that’s been the case since day one.”

The Gunners continue their FA Cup run following last round’s 3-0 win over Oxford United, Arteta stressed the importance of the competition to the club.

“It is a competition that is very important to us, very attached to our club and history and will define a moment that is for sure.”

Arsenal are the record holders of the FA Cup, and despite focus being on the league, we shouldn’t expect to see the Gunners back down in such a prolific competition.