Pep Guardiola hints at huge Arsenal blow as January exit ‘accepted’ by Mikel Arteta

The Premier League is back for another huge game as Arsenal take on Manchester City. The first clash between the two sides could have a massive impact on the outcome of the title race in May.

The Gunners are currently two points behind Pep Guardiola’s men after four games having won all but one so far. City have enjoyed a perfect start to the domestic season with wins over Chelsea, Ipswich Town, West Ham and Brentford.

Mikel Arteta will be hoping for another defensive solid performance like the last time they travelled to the Etihad Stadium. Arsenal drew 0-0 in March after beating the English champions 1-0 earlier in the season.

De Bruyne availability explained

Despite claims on Thursday that Manchester City could be without Kevin De Bruyne on Sunday, reports are now stating that the 33-year-old could still appear against Arsenal.

The midfielder was forced to leave the pitch at half-time in the 0-0 draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday but Guardiola has provided an update on his issue.

“He feels a little bit better today, but we have not yet had training and we will see,” Pep Guardiola said in his pre-match press conference. “He could be [involved].”

football.london says: “De Bruyne being fit for Man City this weekend could be the difference between win and defeat to Arsenal. The Belgian has been a menace for the Gunners over the years and his quality in midfield is evident.

“However, with the season being so early, it’s likely that Guardiola could fear resting him to avoid a possible long-term injury.”

Tomiyasu future hint

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu could leave the club in January, according to reports. It’s been claimed that Arteta has ‘accepted’ the versatile full-back could be on his way out of the club.

The Japanese star has become a well-liked figure in the dressing room since joining in 2021 for £15.5million (€18.60million), and has made 64 Premier League appearances for the Gunners.

The Sun reports that Inter Milan, Napoli and Juventus are all keen to snap up the hard-working defender, with Tomiyasu reportedly open to a move away from the Premier League.

football.london says: “Arsenal’s abundance of quality options in defence means Tomiyasu faces an uphill challenge of getting into the team when he’s back fit.

“His versatility has made him such a good option in years gone by but the investment in Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori in the last two summer windows means the preference is clearly away from him. With plenty of interest, Arsenal could get a great deal.”