Manchester City host Arsenal this weekend in a massive Premier League title race clash.
Just two points separate the Citizens and Gunners as we head into the final quarter of the season.
The game will see Pep Guardiola‘s former student, Mikel Arteta, take on his ex-boss at the Etihad.
The blue half of Manchester hasn’t been a happy place for the Gunners in recent times, with a 4-1 defeat here last year swinging the title back in City’s favour.
However, Arsenal have been more resilient this season and have beaten City at the Emirates and in the Community Shield already this term.
So, it’s all set up to be the biggest game of the year so far.
Man City vs Arsenal: Guardiola vs Arteta
This will be the 12th meeting between Guardiola and Arteta as managers of their respective teams.
The balance is tipped heavily in favour of the Man City boss but Arteta has won the last two matches.
Of course, they both know each other inside out because Arteta was Guardiola’s assistant for nearly three-and-a-half years at the Etihad.
In that time, he learned and adapted his own play style, which he has implemented at Arsenal since he became their manager in December 2019.
Things started well with an FA Cup win before the Gunners struggled through the 2020/21 campaign.
But the last few years have been excellent for Arsenal and Arteta has proven to be a top manager, although he has still been battered the odd time by Guardiola.
However, with both sides now relatively even in terms of personnel, it’s clear this battle between student and master is set to dominate the Premier League until either decides to try a new challenge.
Man City vs Arsenal: Team news
Both sides have a lot of injury concerns heading into this game, with key players either doubtful or ruled out.
The hosts will be without Ederson, meaning Stefan Ortega will fill in between the sticks.
Kyle Walker left the pitch in the first half against Brazil due to a muscle problem, but he’s expected to start.
However, John Stones and Manuel Akanji sustained injuries later in the international break and are highly doubtful.
Matheus Nunes also missed Portugal’s second game earlier this week due to an ankle problem.
In better news for City, Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish are back in full training.
For Arsenal, Gabriel Martinelli is struggling with a foot problem.
Gabriel Magalhaes didn’t play for Brazil over the international break but is expected to feature.
Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka is currently managing a minor hamstring issue and might not be 100 per cent fit to play this match.
However, given his importance, he’s still almost certain to start.
Man City vs Arsenal: What has been said?
talkSPORT presenter and broadcast legend Jeff Stelling has given his prediction for this huge encounter.
He said: “Tense, nervous, edgy? I don’t think it’ll be any of those things.
“Arsenal have proved this season they can live with the big boys, they can go well when the pressure is on.
“City – brilliant – but not quite at the levels of last season, I think there will be goals, I’m gonna go Man City two, Arsenal two.”
Man City vs Arsenal: Date and how to follow
This Premier League clash will take place on Sunday, March 31.
Kick-off at the Etihad is scheduled for 4:30pm.
talkSPORT will have regular updates from the Etihad, with Adrian Durham, Micky Gray and Perry Groves taking you through the action.
talkSPORT.com will also have a live blog.
To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream. You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.
The match is also set to be broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.
Sky Go customers can watch the action via their mobile devices and laptops.
Alternatively, viewers can purchase a one-day NOW TV pass for £11.99.
Man City vs Arsenal Betting with talkSPORT BET
Match odds:
Man City – 17/20
Draw – 13/5
Arsenal – 29/10
*odds subject to change
See more Premier League odds here
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