Speaking to GFFN, the Arsenal icon Petit was asked about whether Mikel Arteta’s side can be compared to the Arsenal team he played in.
He said: “Yes, City are almost a separate case, but they’re also the example to follow in terms of the expectations they put on themselves – not only in England but also for 99% of teams in the world – except maybe Real Madrid, who also have that culture.
“But I’m very pleased with Arteta’s work, very happy with the season, despite losing the title on the last day – we experienced that in 1999, losing the title on the last day having won the double the year before.
“So right now I can’t compare generations for the reason I gave – if you’re going to do so, then you need to compare everything that is comparable – that is to say, will this Arsenal team be remembered in 10 years’ time?
“There are often “beautifullosers” and this Arsenal are good losers but I’d rather they were good winners. The proof is that City have just won their fourth title in four seasons – it’s historic – we’ll remember them as probably the best team the Premier League has ever had. So in 20, 30, 50 years, people will remember them for that. But for this year, even though Arsenal have had a great season, I’m sorry but in 10 years’ time no one will remember them.”