There is a battle of behemoths at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon when Arsenal host Manchester City in their second Premier League title test this term.
The Gunners, who have finished runners-up in the past three seasons and twice to City, were beaten by reigning champions Liverpool on their trip to Anfield before the September international break, with Mikel Arteta scrutinised for his cautious, safety-first approach on Merseyside.
Arsenal recovered from their setback by beating Nottingham Forest and Athletic Club over the past week, with their stellar defensive record remaining intact. They have conceded just once this term to Dominik Szoboszlai’s stupendous free kick but will be tested by one of world football’s most formidable forward lines on Sunday.
City flexed their attacking muscles in their 3–0 derby victory over Manchester United last weekend and extended their winning run by beating Napoli in the Champions League on Thursday night. Even Arsenal’s resilient rearguard will be fearing the arrival of Erling Haaland, who took his tally for club and country to 12 for the season midweek.
Pep Guardiola’s side are vulnerable at the back, however, with their defensive deficiencies exploited by Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion already this season. They will need to sharpen up to walk away from north London with a positive result.
Here is guide to a tantalising battle.
