Arsene Wenger brands Raheem Sterling a ‘good diver’

Arsene Wenger branded Raheem Sterling a diver as Manchester City opened up an eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

Wenger was left raging at two decisions he claimed cost Arsenal the game and branded the perceived continued injustices against his side as “unacceptable”.

City were awarded a controversial penalty just after the break when Sterling went to ground following a challenge with Nacho Monreal, with Sergio Aguero converting from the spot.

TV replays then showed David Silva was in an offside position when he passed for Gabriel Jesus to plunder City’s third, with Wenger unable to contain his fury.

“It was no penalty,” said Wenger. “We know that Raheem Sterling dives well, he does that very well. And the third goal was offside.

“I’m very upset because, at 2-1, we were in the game.

“The third goal was the killer and it’s no coincidence that mistakes always go for the home team, as we know. It’s unacceptable.

“Last year, if you look as well, we conceded two offside goals.

“Of course they’re a top team, but that makes it even more difficult for you.

“Can anyone stop them? It will be difficult this season, the way they have started and with the quality they have, but you never know.

“If, on top of that, they have decisions at home like that, they’ll be unstoppable.”

Guardiola hit back at Wenger and said Arsenal had been guilty of being on the receiving end of fortuitous decisions themselves.

“They tell me it was offside and I don’t like to win in that way, so it’s like this,” said Guardiola.

“But sometimes Arsenal win in Burnley, 1-0 with a hand, so sometimes it’s like this.”

Aguero was given a guard of honour by former City strikers before kick-off to mark him becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer, and took his tally to 179 with his spot-kick.