Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes Arsenal are genuine title contenders following their strong start to the season.

The Gunners are currently two points ahead of the reigning champions going into this weekend’s fixtures and, when asked whether Mikel Arteta’s side are legitimate challengers, Guardiola replied:

“Compared to previous seasons [yes], that’s for sure. Not the only ones [in contention]. Last season, not a contender to win the Premier League, this season [they] will be.”

City are in excellent shape themselves, having picked up 32 points from their opening 13 matches, and they will be looking to get another victory against Brentford on Saturday.

The Bees have not been great on the travels this season, having not won any of their seven matches, with four draws and three defeats so far. Guardiola’s team will, therefore, be heavy favourites.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will be making the trip to Molineux to face Wolves later in the day. Julen Lopetegui will be taking charge of his first game as manager so, despite the Midlands club being in poor form, it won’t be easy to get the three points.