The Premier League serves up a potential classic on Sunday afternoon as Arsenal host Manchester City in their second major title test of the season. The Gunners, who have finished as runners-up for the past three seasons, will be desperate to make a statement after a cautious performance led to defeat against reigning champions Liverpool before the international break.
Since that loss, Mikel Arteta’s side has responded well with comfortable victories, maintaining their stellar defensive record having conceded just once all season. However, they now face one of the world’s most formidable forward lines, led by an in-form Erling Haaland. City arrive in London with their confidence restored after a 3-0 derby demolition of Manchester United and a midweek Champions League win over Napoli, but their own defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed in defeats earlier this season.
Team news and lineups
Both managers face significant injury concerns ahead of this crucial clash. For Arsenal, the fitness of the key trio of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Ben White is the main talking point. Arteta admitted they “haven’t done anything yet” in preparation, making it extremely unlikely any of them will start, and they could miss out entirely. The good news is the return of William Saliba, who is expected to slot back into central defence.
Manchester City also have a major doubt over a key player, with Rodri uncertain to feature after picking up a knock against Napoli. Guardiola confirmed the Spanish midfielder asked to be withdrawn in that game and a decision on his involvement will be made late. The visitors are already without Omar Marmoush, Rayan Cherki, and Mateo Kovačić, while defenders Rayan Aït-Nouri and John Stones also remain doubts.
Arsenal predicted lineup (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Merino, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Gyökeres, Eze.
Man City predicted lineup vs. Arsenal (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma; Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Rodri; Silva, Foden, Reijnders, Doku; Haaland.
Score prediction
While Arsenal‘s 5-1 thrashing of an off-colour City in this fixture last season was a chaotic exception, battles between Arteta and his former mentor Guardiola are generally cagey affairs. With major injury doubts hanging over both squads, particularly key creative players, this titanic clash could be decided by fine tactical margins. City would likely accept a draw from a difficult away fixture, and that seems the most probable outcome.