This weekend’s English Premier League action presents a clash between Arsenal and Manchester City. Based on the squads of the two sides, who has the advantage going into this game, asks MARK LEMKE
GOALKEEPERS
Arsenal’s David Raya has had a solid season so far pulling off great saves and picking up the second most clean sheets in the league with 8. It is unlikely Raya will be an area to exploit.
It is difficult to predict who will be given the nod in goal for City as Stefan Ortega and Ederson have shared the position this season. Ederson is the most likely keeper for this game due to his world class distribution which will aid in City’s build up. His shot stopping is questionable at times which slightly tips the scale in Arsenal’s favour.
Advantage Arsenal.
DEFENCE
Arsenal’s biggest strength is their defence. The centre-back partnership of Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba are not only excellent defensively, they are also threats in the oppositions box from set pieces.
City’s defence this season has been a weakness. In the Premier League and in the Champions League, they have had leaked goals and this could prove to be a deciding factor in this match.
Advantage Arsenal.
MIDFIELD
Arsenal’s midfield works best with Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard both involved. They provide a balance of defence and attack which creates a flow to Arsenal’s game. Their midfield has lacked forward momentum at times this season when fielding three defensive minded midfielders such as Rice, Thomas Partey and Mikel Merino. I expect a midfield of Ødegaard, Rice and Partey which could prove difficult to overcome.
City’s midfield has struggled greatly without the presence of Rodri. Mateo Kovacic has been deployed in that role which has made it clear just how good Rodri is. However, the City midfield is always packed with talent such as Bernardo Silva and Kevin de Bruyne. No matter what form they are in, it is difficult to look at the players City have in their midfield and bet against them. If Silva and De Bruyne produce what they are capable of, the game is theirs for the taking.
Advantage Man City.
ATTACK
Arsenal’s attack this season has been lacklustre. They have been at their most threatening from set pieces when their centre-backs make their way forward. If City are able to defend these set pieces, I struggle to see Arsenal scoring in any other way other than a counter attack or penalty.
Manchester City’s attack may be their biggest strength. Erling Haaland leads the line and if the chances come his way, he can score a few. Arsenal’s defence will have their hands full dealing with Haaland which could free up space for Phil Foden to produce magic that saw him win last season’s Premier League player of the year.
Advantage Man City.
SUMMARY
The advantages are split 2-2 between the sides. Arsenal holds the defensive advantage while Man City have the attacking edge. Arsenal will be playing at home which could give them the boost they need to get the job done. It is easier to defend the goal than it is to score goals which is why having the defensive advantage weighs slightly more. Overall, I would say Arsenal are less likely to lose than Man City.
Combined Arsenal and Man City XI (4-3-3): Raya (Arsenal), Gvardiol (Man City), Saliba (Arsenal), Gabriel (Arsenal), Timber (Arsenal), Rice (Arsenal), De Bruyne (Man City), Silva (Man City), Saka (Arsenal), Haaland (Man City), Foden (Man City)