They are on fire - Man City boss Guardiola admits title rivals are too good

Pep Guardiola has praised title rivals Arsenal, labeling them "on fire" as the new campaign approaches.

The Gunners pushed City all the way in last season's thrilling title race, ultimately falling short by just two points.

When asked about his side's potential title rivals ahead of the Community Shield, Guardiola expressed his admiration for Arsenal's consistent improvement:

"I have been concerned for many years (with) how good they are because every year they are getting better."

Guardiola was particularly impressed by Arsenal's 4-1 win over German champions Bayer Leverkusen in a friendly:

"I see Arsenal playing at the same level as last season; I saw their game against Leverkusen. They are on fire. Every year it looks like they are more and more difficult."

The Cityzens take on Manchester United in the Community Shield before their first game of the Premier League season away at Chelsea.

Arsenal, who have added Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna to shore up the defence, begin their EPL campaign at home to Wolves.