Arsenal will challenge Man City despite League Cup defeat, says Ilkay Gundogan

Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City, centre, in action against Arsenal during the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday. They face the same opponents again on Thursday at Emirates Stadium. Catherine IviShow more

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is expecting a tough challenge when they face Arsenal in the Premier League on Thursday despite their comfortable win over the North London outfit in the League Cup final last Sunday.

City cruised to a 3-0 win at Wembley to secure their first title under manager Pep Guardiola and the league leaders have the chance to re-establish their 16-point gap atop the standings when they travel to the Emirates Stadium.

"We know Arsenal are able to play, they have a strong team. It is going to be challenging and we need to be ready," Gundogan told British media.

"It won't be easy. It is just maybe a bit weird to play them twice in four days."

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After travelling to sixth-placed Arsenal, City host champions Chelsea in the league on Sunday followed by the second leg of their Uefa Champions League last-16 tie against Basel.

"There are still plenty of huge games to play and the next one is on Thursday against the same opponent. It doesn't stop," the German international added.

"There is not really a break to relax or enjoy. Now we try to prepare for the game on Thursday and try to get another win."

City head into their Champions League return leg against Basel with a 4-0 lead from the first leg in Switzerland.