Overview
After winning their fourth consecutive Premier League title last season, it didn't take long for Manchester City to establish dominance in the 2024-2025 campaign.
As the only team to win all four of their opening games, The Citizens have opened up a two-point lead over the team behind them (before the start of round five). Man City's excellence has rendered the 173 points Arsenal have accumulated over the past two seasons meaningless.
However, the calculated victory over Tottenham in the fourth round showed that Arsenal have the qualities of a champion. They only need a set piece to make the difference. But can the "Gunners" beat Man City at the Etihad - something they couldn't do last season?
The Gunners have been consistent, rather than outstanding, in their opening four Premier League games of the season. They are 14th in the league for shots (45) and expected goals (4.99 xG), despite having the fourth-most touches in the opposition box (140).
With captain Martin Odegaard injured, Arsenal are likely to approach the Etihad with a similar approach to the win over Tottenham. Arteta's priority will be to not concede before thinking about scoring.
Up front, the Gunners will need Bukayo Saka to continue to maintain his consistent form. The English striker has been involved in 5/6 of Arsenal's goals in the tournament this season.
On the other side of the front line, Erling Haaland is still aiming for his 100th goal for Man City in all competitions. In midweek, the Norwegian striker "silenced" against Inter Milan in the Champions League. Haaland has 9 goals in just 4 appearances in the Premier League this season, 8 of which have come in the last 3 matches.
Man City have won their last 13 Premier League games and only six teams have won 14 or more in a row. And half of those have been Guardiola's teams.
However, Arsenal have not trailed in their last 11 away Premier League games. They could become the first team in the history of the competition to go 12 consecutive away games without trailing.
Score prediction
Man City are rated higher in this match with a 52% chance of winning. Meanwhile, Arsenal has a 23.5% chance of winning all 3 points, and the remaining 24.5% is the possibility of the two teams drawing.
Prediction: Man City 2-2 Arsenal
The match between Man City and Arsenal takes place at 22:30 on September 22 (Vietnam time).
