Sergio Aguero has admitted that he will consider recreating his full-kit celebration from Argentina's World Cup triumph in Qatar if his former side Manchester City overtake Arsenal to win the Premier League title.
After 10 trophy-laden years at the Etihad Stadium and a brief stint at Barcelona, Aguero's playing career was cut short due to an underlying heart condition and the legendary striker hung up his boots in December 2021.
The 34-year-old watched from the sidelines as his native Argentina claimed 2022 World Cup glory in Qatar, and although he was not a member of the triumphant squad, he was at the heart of celebrations on the pitch after La Albiceleste beat France on penalties in a thrilling final.
Donning the full Argentina kit, Aguero joined his teammates in lifting the World Cup trophy, reminiscent of John Terry's celebrations after Chelsea's 2012 Champions League final victory.
Aguero, Man City's all-time record goalscorer with 260 strikes to his name, has suggested that he could celebrate in the same fashion if his former side manage to knock Arsenal off their perch at the Premier League summit to retain the title.
Asked in an interview by Stake.com if he would recreate his full kit celebration if City were to win the Premier League, Aguero said: "Wouldn't that be wonderful? I'd love for that to happen. If it does, wherever I might be, I'll be celebrating, that's for sure."
Man City lock horns with leaders Arsenal in a top-of-the-table clash at the Etihad on Wednesday, and Aguero believes that the Gunners will be forced to play with a greater level of intensity after dropping points in each of their last three games.
"[It is] a key match for sure, but certainly a different game than, say, if Arsenal had a bigger point advantage on the table," said Aguero. "Now, we can expect a heightened intensity because of how tight it's become. City has had a fine performance lately. We managed to pull it off last year, and we may just do it this year too."
However, Aguero - who won five Premier League titles with the Citizens - has suggested that there is just as much pressure, if not more, on Pep Guardiola's side to win on Wednesday, adding: "They've been fighting neck-and-neck throughout the whole campaign, and they don't want it to slip away at the last stretch.
"It may be more pressure for us (City) because we've played a great streak of games – and a win here would crown this performance. Regardless, I wouldn't use the word 'pressure'. I say it's enthusiasm. We all wanted this game to arrive, and I'm sure it'll be a sight."
Aguero's successor in the centre-forward position at Man City has been goal machine Erling Braut Haaland, who is enjoying a remarkable debut campaign at the Etihad, scoring 48 goals in just 42 games across all tournaments.
The Norwegian has already found the net 32 times in the Premier League this term and will be looking to break the all-time scoring record in a single season when he takes to the pitch against Arsenal on Wednesday.
Aguero has praised "cracking striker" Haaland for adapting so quickly to the demands of Premier League football, adding: "I think he's doing brilliant work for his first year in the team. He washed off the pressure of a new tournament – it can feel like an uphill battle to adapt to the Premier League and a great team like City.
"Haaland's shown he can do it. For all of us who love this club, this is a wonderful moment to enjoy the show – he's a cracking striker."
Asked for his opinion on the title race, Aguero continued: "[The title race] isn't over until it's over. I don't see why we should take anything for granted. A win will get City closer to the trophy, yes... but there's no guarantees.
"[City must] fight until the very end, my catchphrase... but that's in City's DNA by now. Time and time again, we've proven that. Last year, for example. I don't envy our rivals – they are facing a team that was able to turn the tables during the most decisive moments."
Man City have been chasing Mikel Arteta's Arsenal at the Premier League summit since August, and a victory on Wednesday would move them to within two points of the Gunners who have played two games more. body check tags ::
