Arsenal are gearing up for a pivotal clash against potential title contenders Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium this weekend, and Mikel Arteta has been putting in the work to prepare his team.
The two sides have been fierce competitors in recent seasons, battling for the Premier League title. While City came out on top both times, Arsenal are determined to change that narrative this season, starting with Sunday’s match.
Arsenal enter the game with momentum, having secured a victory in the North London derby against Spurs and earning a draw in their Champions League opener against Atalanta. Goalkeeper David Raya stole the spotlight in that match with an incredible double save in Bergamo.
Here’s a roundup of the latest news from Arsenal ahead of the big game:
Shearer Predicts a Stalemate
Alan Shearer has weighed in on Arsenal’s upcoming visit to the Etihad, predicting a close contest. “If you offered Arsenal a point like they got last year, they’d take it without hesitation. They don’t have to win,” Shearer told Betfair.
“Arsenal have a solid defense, and I believe they have the best back four in the Premier League as a unit, with excellent organization and protection from the midfield,” he continued.
“I’m expecting a draw. Both teams had a long week with Champions League games, so a draw wouldn’t be a bad outcome, even though City are at home,” Shearer concluded.
Sterling Faces Limited Role at Arsenal
Raheem Sterling has been warned that he may only play a supporting role at Arsenal this season. Speaking to Paddy Power, former Liverpool player Mark Lawrenson said, “At Arsenal, I think Sterling will primarily be used as squad depth. I don’t see him breaking into the starting XI.”
He added, “I’d guess the manager has already told him he’ll be a 25-minute player each week unless he proves himself when given a chance.”
Sterling joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea during the summer transfer window and has made two substitute appearances so far.
Carragher on Saliba and Gabriel’s Partnership
Jamie Carragher has praised the defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, claiming they have the potential to become one of the Premier League’s all-time great duos.
“Provided they stay together, we’ll soon be talking about Saliba and Gabriel in the same breath as Chelsea’s John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho, or Manchester United’s Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic,” Carragher wrote in The Telegraph.
He added, “For the pair to secure their place in history, Arsenal must win the Premier League or Champions League. But they’re making big strides, and their partnership is the biggest reason why Arteta’s side can head to Manchester City with confidence.”
