Wayne Rooney Reveals Why Pep Guardiola Was Playing 'Mind Games' with Arsenal After Win vs Newcastle

In a candid analysis on The Overlap, Wayne Rooney dissected post-match scenes following Manchester City's narrow Premier League victory over Newcastle United, accusing Pep Guardiola of engaging in deliberate psychological warfare against Arsenal.[2]

The context stems from City's recent form resurgence. After progressing in the FA Cup against Salford City—thanks to an early own goal, James Trafford's saves, and Marc Guehi's late strike—City hosted Newcastle, closing the gap to Arsenal at the top to just two points.[1] Guardiola's side, now on a seven-match unbeaten run, capitalized on Arsenal's midweek slip against Wolves, where the Gunners squandered a two-goal lead.[1]

During his press conference, Guardiola downplayed the title race intensity, insisting: "70% of the [Manchester City] players are new, so they don’t have experience... I didn’t speak one second about [the title race]... It’s 12 games, it’s an eternity."[1] He urged players to "relax," joking about drinking caipirinhas and daiquiris, and quipped, "Watching Arsenal? I’m going on holiday."[5] Rooney interpreted these remarks as mind games aimed at unsettling Arsenal amid their fragile lead.[2]

Rooney defended Arsenal, criticizing ex-players and fans for creating undue pressure: "What's happening is the Arsenal fans and ex-players... are actually killing them. They should stay silent."[3] He praised Mikel Arteta's media handling as "spot on" and predicted Arsenal would hold firm, citing their collective strength over individual stars, despite City's historical dominance (five titles in six seasons).[3]

Guardiola emphasized focus: "Yesterday and the day before, it’s just Newcastle... I could not care less!"[1] Rooney argued this feigned nonchalance pressures Arsenal psychologically, especially with Arsenal facing Wolves next and City known for late surges.[3] Newcastle, sitting 10th and chasing Europe, tested City but couldn't prevent the hosts' momentum.[1]

Rooney's verdict: Guardiola's antics exploit Arsenal's nerves in a razor-tight race, where mental resilience could decide the champions.[2][3]

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