Fitness concerns over City’s usual full backs meant pace merchant Navas was given the job against Arsenal’s Chilean danger-man Alexis Sanchez - and Guardiola felt the Spaniard adapted well to a tough test.
“I want to congratulate Jesus Navas who was excellent against one of the best players in the world in Alexis Sanchez,” Guardiola said of the winger’s display.
“I played him because Bacary Sagna was injured and Pablo Zabaleta were not ready and Jesus always deserves the best because he is an excellent guy and I was so happy with him.”
Arsenal 2-2 City: Match report
City scored two goals in the first half through Leroy Sane and Sergio Aguero, but Guardiola felt City played better after the break once Yaya Toure had been introduced.
“We played much better in the second half. After we scored the opening goal we forgot to play. The second half we started to complete more passes, creating more chances.”
On the title race Guardiola added: “Today wasn’t the perfect performance but there are still a lot of games left. Chelsea lost yesterday and it was disappointing not to take all three points today.”
