Mikel Arteta is set to be named the next Arsenal manager in the coming days as the London club has stepped up its chase of the Manchester City assistant coach.
The Gunners are now in 10th place in the league with a 5-7-5 record and 22 points, sitting seven points back of the top four.
"He's an incredible person... work ethic... and that's why he's with us", said Guardiola.
The 3-0 defeat marked Arsenal's second defeat in four league games under the interim guidance of Freddie Ljungberg.
Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola (R) and his assistant Mikel Arteta (C) watch from their seats during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 15, 2019.
"When the club takes a decision to replace the manager or buy players, it's always to rise to be better. He's part of our staff, but what will happen, I don't know". He's a professional human being and a person, I don't have doubts about that.
Gunners chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside former Spain U21 worldwide Arteta's home after both flew north following City's 3-0 win at Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Guardiola confirmed City were unhappy with Arsenal's conduct after the topic of Arteta was not broached by directors on Sunday and suggested the Spaniard would have a big job on his hands at the Emirates. I have said, you have many offers, more than us, but it is personal. We can not deny that all the clubs around the world make behind the scenes the first contact, try to avoid the clubs that are in charge, they don't realise it and the media don't realise it, so that process is normal.
"It's all well and good saying he's worked under Pep Guardiola, but let's be honest, Guardiola would struggle managing this Arsenal team".
