Mikel Arteta pinpoints the ‘important’ Manchester City star who made things ‘difficult’ for Arsenal

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Manchester City had a new look about themselves under Pep Guardiola, as they came so close to beating Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium over the weekend.

The Cityzens have always prided themselves on their style of play, alongside their ability to win on a relentless basis.

Under Pep Guardiola, the team have been nothing short of an efficient winning machine, but the past year has seen plenty of change to that.

The irresistible Manchester City of old is gone, ushering in a new era with fresh faces and a different way of playing.

That much was certainly clear in Man City’s draw with Arsenal, as they played out a counterattacking style not typically associated with the manager.

It almost earned them all three points, barring a late intervention from Gabriel Martinelli.

One City star came in for particular praise, having already been associated with the change under Guardiola.

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Mikel Arteta praises Gianluigi Donnarumma’s performance for Man City against Arsenal

One player who has come in for plenty of praise is Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Donnarumma signed for Man City from PSG this summer for roughly £26 million, which came as something of a surprise at the time.

Not only had Man City signed James Trafford earlier in the window, but the Italian international’s strengths focus far more on shot-stopping than playing out from the back.

It may be something of a departure from the old style of play with him in between the sticks, but the early signs are that he may be exactly what the team needs.

Donnarumma came close to keeping a clean sheet against Arsenal, and he received plenty of praise for his display.

Including some from Mikel Arteta, who went on to tell the press: “He’s so dominant in the box and every ball that is in and around the six-yard box, his timing, the way he executes the action, it is super efficient.

“It’s very difficult, and today again he made some very important contributions not to lose again.”

Donnarumma made it particularly tough for Arsenal to be effective with their set-pieces and their crossing, which appeared to be their only route towards goal for most of the game.

If this is the new style for Man City, then the goalkeeper will be incredibly important for the remainder of the season.

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Pep Guardiola believes new players need to settle at Manchester City

One of the biggest challenges facing Manchester City is rebuilding the team once again.

Plenty of key stars left over the summer, those who had played a big part in winning some of the titles and trophies on offer over the years.

With the rebuild now underway, it may be the reason why Man City had to be so pragmatic, unlike their usual selves.

Guardiola hinted at this himself when he told the press: “Still trying to grow. Many new players, including an important position with the keeper.

“Many players are injured. This is a young, young team, the youngest team we have had and will be for the future.

“Step by step, we see what happens. It is a long journey, so we take it game by game.”

With a big season ahead, Guardiola will be keen to have his team competing for the biggest honours once again.