Manchester City boss Mark Hughes admits he is a huge fan of Arsene Wenger's philosophy, but insists he will not be copying it.
City boss a fan, but he says system is flawed
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes admits he is a huge fan of Arsene Wenger's philosophy - but insists he will not be copying it.
Hughes likes Arsenal boss's flowing football mentality - but he says that is not the way you can win major honours.
Hughes' side - which now includes former Gunners Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure - comes up against Arsenal on Saturday in an eagerly anticipated clash.
"Arsene has a fantastic philosophy. Everybody in football appreciates it," said Hughes.
"We are trying to reach the heights he has reached. They have players who can win games with a flash of inspiration.
"I know we have the capability to play football as expansive and creative as Arsenal. But you can't be successful if you just have that kind of player.
"Last season was an illustration. At times we played fantastic flowing, open football. But against certain other types of teams we could not compete.
"I have done okay against Arsene's teams in the past. I know what they enjoy and what they don't. We will try and exploit that."
Ex-Gunners ready
And Hughes is fully confident that Adebayor will be causing his former side all sorts of issues.
"Emmanuel is playing with a smile on his face. That is evident to everybody," he continued.
"He is scoring goals as well. As a striker that is important when you move to a new club."
He says both of his former Arsenal chargers are ready to face Wenger.
"They are looking forward to this game with relish," said Hughes.
"They are both really enjoying being a big part of what is happening here.
"There is a lot of focus on us and they want to show what they are capable of.
"They have a huge amount of respect for Arsenal and were a big part of their success there.
"Now they want to show even when you leave one of the top four it is not a downward step when you come to a club like Manchester City."
