The Premier League’s most anticipated clash of the weekend is set to take place on Sunday evening as Man City host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.
Both teams are vying for dominance in the early stages of the season, with high stakes on the line.
Manchester City enter the match fresh from a 2-1 victory over Brentford in their last Premier League outing, although played out a goalless draw against Inter in the Champions League during the midweek.
The defending champions have, however, been in strong form against Arsenal in recent encounters, winning three, drawing two, and losing one of their last six meetings with the Gunners.
On team news, Man City face potential challenges with key absentees.
Manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that playmaker Kevin De Bruyne remains a doubt for the fixture after he was forced off during City’s UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan on Wednesday.
Defender Nathan Ake is ruled out after suffering an injury while on international duty with the Netherlands.
On the positive side for City, midfielder Rodri, who made a return to the squad as a substitute against Brentford, is expected to be in contention for a starting spot.
Arsenal, on the other hand, come into the match following a hard-fought 1-0 win over rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
However, they will be without captain Martin Odegaard, who has been sidelined with a significant ankle injury.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the midfielder’s absence, stating he will be out “for a while.”
The Gunners will welcome back Declan Rice, who is available for selection after serving a one-match suspension for his red card against Brighton.
In terms of the table, Manchester City sit second with 12 points from four matches and will need at least a draw to move to the top.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, currently in fifth with 10 points, need a victory to overtake their rivals and climb to the summit of the Premier League standings.
Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Nigerian time.
The post EPL preview: Man City, Arsenal trade tackles for top spot appeared first on Vanguard News.
