Arsenal v Man City: Rivals face each for first time since Erling Haaland’s ‘stay humble’ comment

At his pre-match news conference, Guardiola defended Haaland for his “stay humble” comment.

The words have been used against the Norwegian in the months since as rival fans, revelling in City’s troubled campaign, have turned the focus back on him.

Having seen what Haaland has to put up with on a weekly basis in the Premier League, Guardiola is surprised the 24-year-old doesn’t lose his cool more often.

“For Erling it’s not easy,” said Guardiola. “Arsenal is a physical team, in a good way, in many aspects.

“For 90 minutes, the central defender, Gabriel, push him, hack him, hug him and kiss him. The Premier League is that way.

“You have to stand up and defend your position. And now I am being asked to adjudicate on what Erling has done? I don’t buy it.

“The end of the game was so emotional. In the end, a human being has to react.”

Haaland’s disciplinary record is remarkable.

The Norwegian has never been sent off as a City player and has been booked just three times in his past 54 Premier League appearances.

“I’m surprised how he controls his emotions” Guardiola said. “In every action, he’s being pulled and the referee plays on.

“How many times does it happen? And he never complains. He behaves incredibly well.”