Arsenal has the opportunity to make a significant statement in the competition for the title on Sunday, since the current champions are dealing with a considerable number of injured players.
Arsenal is performing exceptionally well. Mikel Arteta’s team has been in exceptional form in the Premier League, winning all of their last eight matches and scoring an impressive 33 goals while only conceding four.
The Gunners will head to Manchester City on Sunday with a strong sense of self-assurance as they strive to win their first top-flight championship since 2004. This is in stark contrast to their previous encounter at the Etihad Stadium. Arsenal suffered a devastating 4-1 setback in an away match against Pep Guardiola’s team last season, following a series of three consecutive draws. This result had a profound psychological impact on Arsenal, from which they were unable to bounce back.
The city’s extensive experience and deep roster ultimately provided them with an advantage as they proceeded to clinch their fifth championship under Guardiola. Arsenal have made a remarkable recovery and currently occupy the first position in the standings as we approach the crucial stage of the season. Liverpool is in second place, with City just one point behind in third place, determined by goal difference.
“I refuse to watch the games,” Guardiola informed reporters before to witnessing a significant number of his team members joining their respective national teams for the March international matches. “I will take a break, and when they arrive on Thursday, we will assess which players succeed and which players do not.” “It is a desire that everyone is in a state of well-being.”
Regrettably, the Catalan coach witnessed the realization of his most dreaded apprehensions. During England’s 1-0 loss to Brazil, Kyle Walker left the Wembley field with a hamstring injury after only 20 minutes. It is now being stated that he is highly uncertain to play in the upcoming Arsenal match.
John Stones, on the other hand, completed the entire 90 minutes of the match against Brazil. He was then chosen to begin the Three Lions’ following game against Belgium just three days later. However, he had to leave the game early due to a problem with his adductor. Stones has experienced a series of health problems, limiting his availability to start only 11 games for City in the 2023-24 season. It is uncertain whether he will recover in time for Sunday.
City will also be concerned about the status of Manuel Akanji following his withdrawal from the Switzerland team due to an injury. Akanji has emerged as one of Guardiola’s unheralded stars this season, routinely delivering exceptional performances in central defense and while deputizing as a right-back. Losing him would be a significant blow.
Guardiola is currently dealing with a significant dilemma in choosing his defenders, since his top goalkeeper, Ederson, remains a concern due to a thigh ailment that caused him to withdraw from Brazil’s training camp. Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish were unable to participate in international matches, and Matheus Nunes is currently dealing with a foot ailment. This might potentially present Manchester City with a shortage of players in the attacking position for their upcoming critical game of the season.
