The pair only returned to training on Monday, after the Community Shield curtain raiser against Chelsea, having enjoyed a three-week summer break, following their World Cup exploits.
Although there had been doubts over their fitness for the weekend’s clash at the Emirates Stadium, Guardiola explained both De Bruyne and Sterling are in ‘perfect’ condition.
“They are available,” he told the press. “They arrived quite well.
“Raheem and Kevin had three weeks off after the World Cup, which is not too much time (for pre-season) but they both arrived in the perfect way.
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“Sterling was fit after three or four days – he is not a big guy. [Maintaining] his physical condition is easy.
“Kevin arrived in the perfect way.”
New recruit Riyad Mahrez is also in contention, having completed a full pre-season with the Blues.
Guardiola revealed the Algerian has slotted into his new side seamlessly.
“He has settled in quite well,” he reflected. “He knows the Premier League – that is a good point for us.
“Today, the players connect immediately in the teams. The guys who were here already introduced themselves to him easily.
“He knew Benjamin Mendy from the past and some other players. In two or three days, he was another guy – part of the team.”
Guardiola also spoke of his admiration for Arsenal counterpart Unai Emery, who will take charge of his first Premier League game when the two managers lock horns.
“He is an excellent manager,” the Catalan continued. “What he achieved – three Europa Leagues in a row – is excellent. He is a good manager and it is good for the Premier League.
“Our target is: try to win as much as we can and in April and May, we will see (the outcome). If we are good and consistent like last season, we have a good chance.”
