Arsenal vs Manchester City
Premier League
Sunday
8th October 2023
Emirates Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the gameweek eight Premier League fixture between Arsenal and Manchester City.
Arsenal vs Manchester City: Preview
Arsenal form analysis
AFC began brightly by twice leading away at Fulham, but had to settle for a 2-2 draw despite goals from Saka and Nketiah. They responded excellently by beating Manchester United 3-1 at home, with Odegaard and Jesus on target. To win 1-0, Trossard’s goal was necessary as Arsenal found it difficult to take down Everton at the other end.
They drew 2-2 at home in a pulsating North London derby with Spurs, with Saka’s penalty cancelled out by a Son brace after Romero’s own goal. Most recently, Arsenal produced their best display yet in a dominant 0-4 thrashing of Bournemouth, inspired by Saka, Odegaard and Havertz goals.
Overall, it’s been a promising but inconsistent start for Arsenal as they integrate new signings. They’ve showcased their attacking threat, especially at home. But breaking down stubborn opponents like Everton has been an issue.
Defensive lapses have also crept in, conceding cheap goals at times. However, Arteta appears to have improved his attack with the additional upgrades. If Arsenal can iron out the flaws in their game, they have an excellent chance of challenging for the title again this season. The win at Bournemouth demonstrated their potential.
Manchester City form analysis
City began with a hard fought 2-1 win away at Sheffield United, with Haaland and Rodri on target. They followed that up by hammering Fulham 5-1 at home, as Haaland bagged a hat-trick on his Etihad debut.
However, defensive issues surfaced in a 3-1 away win at West Ham, requiring a Haaland strike to seal the points after going behind. City comfortably defeated Nottingham Forest 2-0 in their next match thanks to goals from Foden and Haaland. However, they suffered a shock 2-1 loss away at Wolves last time out, going behind early before Alvarez equalized in vain.
Overall, City have showcased their attacking brilliance, with Haaland settling in seamlessly. But they have been prone to uncharacteristic defensive lapses at times. Pep Guardiola seems to have built another devastating frontline though, with Alvarez also impressing.
If City can retain that attacking threat while tightening up defensively, another Premier League title looks well within their reach this season despite the upset at Wolves. But restoring their typical defensive solidity is crucial if City are to meet their lofty standards this term.
