Let’s take a look at the team news as Arsenal go up against Manchester City on Wednesday night for the potential Premier League title decider, with the visitors hoping to secure their first league title in 19 years. However, following their 3-3 draw against Southampton on Friday night, the Gunners have been accused of “bottling” the title race.
Despite currently being five points ahead of Manchester City, who have played two games less, most experts believe that the Cityzens’ ten consecutive domestic victories make them the favourites to overtake Arsenal and defend their title.
Injury/Suspension List:
There are fewer injury concerns for Pep Guardiola ahead of the upcoming match, which is a departure from much of the season. Nathan Ake’s availability is in question, but he is expected to recover in time for the title-deciding fixture on Wednesday.
Additionally, Phil Foden is back in action following an injury that sidelined him for over a month, having played 22 minutes in Manchester City’s FA Cup semi-final victory over Sheffield United. He is anticipated to be included in the squad for the Arsenal match.
On the other hand, Arsenal’s William Saliba is unlikely to play due to a back injury, which is a massive blow to their defence. In addition, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Mohamed Elneny are out due to season-ending knee surgeries, but Granit Xhaka should be fit to play after recovering from an illness.
Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus could start for the North London side against their former club, while Gabriel Martinelli could break the record for the most goals by a Brazilian player in a single Premier League season with a 16th strike, equalling Roberto Firmino’s 2017-18 tally
Player To Watch Out For – Erling Haaland
One of Haaland’s most notable skills is his speed. He is incredibly fast on the pitch and can outrun most defenders with ease. He is also an excellent dribbler, with exceptional control of the ball. His dribbling skills make him a nightmare for defenders to handle, as he can move past them with ease.
The Norwegian’s finishing ability is second to none. He is a prolific goal scorer, and his ability to find the back of the net is truly impressive. He has a powerful shot, which he can unleash from long distances, and he is also very accurate with his finishing. The 22-year-old’s finishing skills are what make him one of the most feared strikers in Europe today.
In addition to his speed, dribbling, and finishing skills, Haaland is also an excellent header of the ball. He is tall and athletic, which gives him an advantage when it comes to winning aerial duels. He can score goals with his head from crosses and set pieces, and his height makes him a valuable asset in defence as well.
Man City Form:
WWWWW
Arsenal Form:
DDDWW
Arsenal Predicted Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale (GK); Ben White (RB), Rob Holding (CB), Gabriel (CB), Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB); Granit Xhaka (CM), Thomas Partey (CM); Bukayo Saka (RW), Martin Odegaard (CAM), Gabriel Martinelli (LW); Gabriel Jesus (ST).
Read More:
- Arsenal Establish Contact With €26m Rated German Right-Back, Club Seriously Interested in a Summer Move
- Arsenal Preparing Summer Offer for Barcelona Centre-back, Mikel Arteta Very Keen to Reunite With Former City Defender
- Title Hopes in Jeopardy as Gunners Hand Man City Massive Advantage, Points Dropped to Bottom-Placed Saints | 3 Crucial Lessons Learnt From the Arsenal-Southampton Game
Predicted Score:
Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal
The Gunners’ approach avoiding a loss will be fascinating and it is likely they will hit the front foot, which would make for a highly entertaining game with goals galore. With both Arsenal and Manchester City expected to score, it should end in a draw to keep the title race on.
Follow AD for the Latest Matchday Updates for Arsenal.
