Here is the team news as League leaders Arsenal go to Etihad Stadium to face defending Champions Manchester City in the Premier League this weekend. As the title race becomes closer than ever, let’s take a look at one of the most important fixtures of this season. The 2 teams are separated by a solitary point. Along with them are Liverpool who are tied on points with Arsenal but lacking in goal difference.

Title Hopes and Dreams at Stake

After the international friendlies played over these 2 weeks, Arsenal have a serious challenge ahead, facing current treble-holders City. The reverse fixture in early October last year saw Arsenal narrowly escape with a 1-0 win after a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli. This game at Etihad has the possibility to decide who wins the league.

Pep Guardiola’s men are hoping to collect all 3 points this time around, and with the home-ground advantage, he will be looking towards the fans to give the team a leg-up in this match.

Injury and Suspension List:

Arsenal have a few doubts for this game against City, but the main worry is that Bukayo Saka won’t be able to start. As of now, Saka’s hamstring injury is looking bad and there are doubts about him being fit for matchday.

Center-back Gabriel is also a worry, but it seems as if he will be ready by the time the game comes around. Martinelli’s injury that he picked up against Sheffield United in their six-goal thrashing before the international break is also a concern for manager Mikel Arteta, as the Brazilian has historically been a weapon for the Gunners against City.

Man City also have their doubts, with Ederson, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Manuel Akanji all possibly ruled out for the match. But perhaps City’s biggest blow would be if Kevin De Bruyne (KDB) is out. He sustained an injury to his groin and is a doubt for the game. His (possible) absence could be the deciding factor in this game’s outcome (all injury news according to Premierinjuries.com).

Player to Watch Out For – Erling Haaland

As usual, Erling Haaland has been superb this season. With the most goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season so far, he is one scary striker. When we look at his playing style, Haaland’s poaching abilities are superb, with him being able to score from any ball inside the 6-yard box. With KDB and Co. playing him passes from everywhere on the pitch, Arsenal center-backs William Saliba and Gabriel (if fit) will have their work cut out for them.

Manchester City Form:

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Arsenal Form:

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Arsenal Predicted Starting Lineup (4-3-3):

David Raya (GK); Ben White (RB), William Saliba (CB), Gabriel (CB), Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB); Martin Ødegaard (CM), Declan Rice (CDM), Kai Havertz (CM); Leandro Trossard (LW), Gabriel Jesus (ST), Reiss Nelson (RW).

Predicted Score

Manchester City 1 – 1 Arsenal

We predict the outcome to be a draw. Arsenal and City both have immense firepower and a stacked defense, and we see this game ending with points shared. The goals will most likely be from Haaland and Ødegaard, and the game should keep us on the edge of our seats all throughout.

Follow AD for the Latest Matchday Updates on Arsenal.