Pep Guardiola said it was inevitable that Premier League matches will go behind closed doors, following the example of Italy and Spain.

Guardiola added that he hopes only a couple games will take place without supporters.

“You have to ask whether it is worth playing football without the spectators. It doesn’t make any sense to play professional football without the people, because they are the ones we do it for, but obviously we are going to follow the instructions we are given. I would prefer not to play games without people watching, but clearly health is the most important thing, not the competition. I do think playing games behind close doors is going to happen here, but just one or two games, maybe. No longer than that.”

Guardiola said that he remains in constant contact with Mikel Arteta, with their two sides set to meet at the weekend. 

“I said after one season that Mikel would make a good manager for someone, as long as the right offer came along. He knows Arsenal very well, he played there a long time, and I’m sure they will have some success with him in charge.”