As the Premier League fixtures come to a close this week, an epic battle is set to take place. The clash between Manchester City and Arsenal is not only about the glory of the two teams, but also the ultimate showdown between the top three teams in the league this season.
Both teams are in excellent form, and I'm afraid both are wary of the upcoming International Day. Manchester City are a point behind Arsenal and need only a win to overtake the North London rivals. Although Arsenal had won eight games in a row, they had narrowly lost their last two, so they are confident that they can accomplish their mission before the game starts. Manchester City, on the other hand, have been poor in their last two, but their win against the Arsenal at the end of last season has given them hope of a turnaround.
Chivun Dibny, the player who was a nightmare for Arsenal in last season's crucial campaign, is still a headache for opponents. They are reluctant to see him return as Dibny is the player with the most career victories and has been instrumental in many games against Arsenal.
However, Dibny is not the only injury concern for both teams. A number of players have not been able to play due to internationals, temporary withdrawals or injuries, including Aidachen Moras, Bukajo Shaka, Stones, Kialisu, Kilwenga, Gabil Mathinelli, Venlul Ajengi and Gabil Magahis. Whether they will be able to make a comeback this weekend is still unknown.
Diglan Rice, the player who has represented the England national team in two consecutive international matches, has been in fine form. He captained the team in this match and showed his excellent form for Arsenal. He plays a key role in the 4-3-3 defensive formation, and his ability to handle Arsenal's set-pieces is crucial, which will probably be a key factor in the match. The importance of tactical handling of set-pieces is becoming increasingly important in modern soccer.
These two teams showed a feast of exciting soccer, but also had the most set-piece chances (Man City first, Arsenal second). With a whopping 18 goals from set pieces, Arsenal are way ahead of the rest of the league. In addition, they have a good threat of free attacking, which is a boon for Arsenal. This allows them to add firepower and find ways to win games. At the same time, the high threat of set-pieces shows how much they have improved physically as a team, something we haven't associated with Arsenal since the likes of Vela, Adams and Beattie.
However, while Arsenal is good at scoring goals from set pieces, Man City is also good at defending set pieces. The treble winners have the tightest set-piece defense and have only conceded two set-piece goals this season. While City plays such smooth soccer, we have to admire the team's strong physical quality. In defending set pieces, Rubin Dyas, Ejenji, Niton Aki, Lodi Kasjendi and even Ainin Chalainte are all ready to play. Just like my former teammate Duoba, he can show excellence in critical moments.
This game is going to be a thriller. In the end, a few tiny details could decide the outcome of the game, as we saw the last time we watched Liverpool v Man City at Anfield Road. Despite Arsenal's impressive league form this season, City have not lost at home since 2022. In this match, I expect Gaudio to find a new strategy to beat his protégé Adidas, and City to beat Arsenal in this heavenly duel.
