Arsenal’s next five fixtures compared to Man City and Liverpool in the Premier League title race

Mikel Arteta will be determined to return to winning ways after the international break. Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon, dropping crucial points in the Premier League title race.

Kai Havertz put the Gunners ahead just before half-time, lobbing Bart Verbruggen from distance after Bukayo Saka got the better of Lewis Dunk. Shortly after the break, Declan Rice was, controversially, shown his second yellow card and given his marching orders.

His dismissal well and truly took the wind out of Arsenal’s sails, with Joao Pedro finding an equaliser on the hour-mark. While, of course, it’s not the end of the world, the north Londoners may head into the international break behind the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.

Not to mention that Arteta has some difficult games to prepare for in September.

Tottenham (A) – Premier League – September 15

The big one. The north London derby. Arguably the biggest game of the Gunners’ season. Unfortunately for Arsenal, they’ll be without Rice, who was shown a red card against Brighton. The decision can not be appealed or overturned as a second yellow offence.

Bolton Wanderers (H) – Carabao Cup – September 17

This game should offer Arsenal some much-needed respite before they lick their wounds and gear up for the Champions League. With Ethan Nwaneri not going out on loan, Arteta can hand the teenage midfielder his first competitive start of the season.

Atalanta (A) – Champions League – September 19

Another big game. Arsenal will want to get off on the right foot in Europe, so a rest for Martin Odegaard a couple of days prior begins to make even more sense. An away day too, which will go down well with fans!

Manchester City (A) – Premier League – September 22

Arsenal are going to be put through the ringer in September. While this month may be daunting for the Gunners, they have the chance to prove why they must be considered title contenders, domestically and on the European stage.

Leicester City (H) – Premier League – September 28

This game can’t come around quick enough. Back on home soil against a newly-promoted side. No offence to the Foxes, but Arsenal will be licking their lips. This fixture could be the perfect chance for the Gunners to reset mentally, collect themselves and reignite their flame.

Man City’s next five fixtures

Brentford (H) – Premier League – September 14

Watford (H) – Carabao Cup – September 17

Internazionale (H) – Champions League – September 18

Arsenal (H) – Premier League – September 22

Newcastle United (A) – Premier League – September 28

Liverpool’s next five fixtures

Brentford (H) – Premier League – September 14