Arsene Wenger conceded Arsenal have blown their title chances after defeat left them 12 points behind leaders City.
David Silva’s goal restored Roberto Mancini’s side to the top of the table, after Manchester United – who beat QPR 2-0 – had briefly led earlier in the day.
And Arsenal boss Wenger said: “It was a game we couldn’t afford to lose because it now puts us too far behind City. If we’d won, it would have put us only six points behind.”
The Gunners are now fifth and set to focus on securing a Champions League spot rather than the title itself.
Wenger added: “With our full-backs coming back, as well as Jack Wilshere (above) and Abou Diaby, we will have a better squad in the second half of the season.
“But it will be difficult to close the gap although, of course, we will try.” Mancini, who celebrates his second year in charge today, said: “Winning was very important after [losing at] Chelsea.
“We deserved to beat Arsenal and we had a fantastic performance, as they are playing very well at the moment.”
Victory over Stoke on Wednesday night will put City top of the league at Christmas for the first time since 1929.
Mancini added: “We want to stay at the top for a long time, not only Christmas.”
By David McDonnell
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