Why Man City should fear the visit of Arsenal and the dark arts today in Premier League title clash
The current Premier League campaign may be in it’s infancy, but Arsenal have the opportunity to deal a major psychological blow in the title race. Mikel Arteta’s side know a win at Manchester City will move them top of the table and point clear of Pep Guardiola’s men.
Just two points separated the two sides last season, with the title heading to Manchester after a closely fought campaign. Arsenal took four points from their two games with City last season – a 1-0 win at the Emirates followed by a 0-0 draw at the Etihad.
Guardiola’s side come into the game having won their opening four games of the season, but Arsenal’s impressive record on the road means they shouldn’t fear City. The Gunners have conceded just three goals on the road in 2024 – two of those in the North London derby last season and a consolation strike at Nottingham Forest.
It would be remiss to suggest City away will be anything but the toughest away game for the Gunners this season. Keeping Erling Haaland quiet will be key, but not an easy task given the Norwegian has scored nine goals so far in the top flight this season.
Arteta’s outfit have won an incredible ten of their last 11 Premier League away games – scoring 31 goals on the road in 2024 with nine clean sheets.
A key factor behind their impressive run on the road has been mastering the dark arts. The win over Spurs showcased that, with Ange Postecoglou visibly irate.
As is often the case for Premier League sides on the road, Arsenal slowed the game down against their North London rivals, taking 42 seconds to take their first corner of the game against Spurs. The Tottenham boss was spotted with his arms outstretched in the first-half as Arsenal took their time over a throw in.
The slower game away from home has shown Arteta’s diligence and awareness of threats on the counter. City will likely have more possession than any other side Arsenal will face this season, but the consistent approach away from home should stand them in good stead.
