Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola believes Arsenal fans should be satisfied that they have already won “the most important title” this season: Champions League qualification.

Speaking ahead of City’s match against West Ham on Wednesday night, Guardiola told Sky Sports: “Arsenal have already achieved Champions League qualification after seven years. Maybe the mood there is a bit down.

“[But] after seven years they won the most important title of the season for the club – to qualify next season for the Champions League. Because financially, it is prestigious, new signings. For many reasons it is the most important title, by far, and it is already there.

“They lost the last game [against Man City] and they are sad, but I am pretty sure they have to be so happy because they make an incredible achievement.”

Arsenal last played in the Champions League six years ago.