Arsenal learn huge Pep Guardiola exit update amid Man City 115 charges wait

As Arsenal prepare for their final clash of a superb 2023/24 season, it could all be in vain with Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the driving seat to claim their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

The Gunners moved back to the top of the table following victory over Manchester United last Sunday, but that stint at the summit lasted only two days. Earlier this week, the reigning champions wrestled back control of this season's title race with a win against Tottenham.

Following that, City now sit two points above Arsenal with the knowledge a triumph over West Ham at Etihad Stadium would hand them another domestic crown. Despite the Gunners dropping just six points from the last 51 available, it does not look to be enough to stop Guardiola's relentless winning machine.

Arsenal also boast a ridiculous goal difference that is higher than City's, which is also something no club has been able to do at this stage of the season in the last seven years. The arrival of Erling Haaland has furthered their stranglehold on English football and while it is not exactly clear when they will relinquish that, the future of Guardiola will certainly play a role.

In November 2023, the Spaniard signed an extension with City taking his tenure under contract until 2025 with it also possible he agrees more years. However, The Athletic's David Ornstein has suggested his current deal may be his final one in Manchester.

In a Q&A, he said: "I don't think a decision has been made. As you know from last time, Guardiola tends to leave it quite late before committing. There is a feeling around the industry that he will leave in the summer of 2025, however I currently have not evidence to back this up."

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Guardiola leaving City may not spell the end of their dominance, but if the club were to suffer in the same way rivals Manchester United did following the exit of Sir Alex Ferguson, the power dynamic would shift. Alternatively, if a verdict is reached on City's 115 financial charges, City remaining at the top would be hugely unlikely with Arsenal in a prime position to take over.

Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have all their key players tied down to long-term contracts with a clear plan in place for the future. It may not be their time this season, but success arriving for Arsenal is surely a matter of time and if Guardiola leaves City next summer, they may not have to wait long.