One very important Raheem Sterling stat proves he has to start for Arsenal against Man City

Arsenal are set to face Manchester City in a crucial game in the Premier League title race, and there is very little room for error.

Both sides are heading into the game unbeaten, with Man City in outstanding attacking form, whilst Arsenal’s defence has been rock solid.

Arsenal have endured a challenging week, but won 1-0 in an away North London derby before drawing 0-0 in the Champions League against Atalanta.

The victory at Tottenham Hotspur could have been even more comfortable, but Gabriel Martinelli missed a huge chance in the first half, and the winger is struggling for confidence.

Martinelli missed another good chance against Atalanta, and he has now failed to score in 17 games. Arsenal cannot afford passengers against Man City, and there is now a case to be made that new signing Raheem Sterling should be given his first start ahead of him.

Why Raheem Sterling should start for Arsenal against Man City

Sterling arrived at Arsenal following two difficult years at Chelsea, but prior to his arrival in London, he was outstanding for Man City under Pep Guardiola.

The 29-year-old scored 131 goals and provided 73 assists in 339 Man City appearances in a hugely successful spell at the Etihad Stadium, and he is no stranger to huge title clashes there.

In a game in which Mikel Arteta could turn to other experienced options such as Jorginho, composure will be vital in what is likely to be another ‘chess match’ encounter with Man City.

Despite Chelsea’s poor campaign last season, Sterling was clearly determined to perform well against his old club. The Englishman scored both home and away against City, with a strike to make it 2-1 to Chelsea in a game which ended 4-4, before the opening goal in a 1-1 tie at the Etihad.

Sterling scored twice against Man City, and his experience in games against his old teammates could be decisive for Arsenal.

Raheem Sterling could replace Gabriel Martinelli in Man City clash

Martinelli is in a poor run of form, but whilst there is little cause for concern in the long run, it might be best for him to be taken out of the firing line.

Another missed chance in a huge game this week would dent his confidence even further, and whilst his speed in transition could be vital, the option of Sterling as a replacement makes dropping the Brazilian a vital option.

Sterling will have a point to prove against Man City, and his speed could make him the perfect option on the left wing, as he aims to rediscover his own form.