Cricket Live
Football Live
This Sunday afternoon, Premier League fans are in for a blockbuster as reigning champions Manchester City lock horns with last season's runners-up, Arsenal, at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola's men are the only team with a flawless record so far, winning all four of their opening matches. However, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, fresh off a dominant North London derby victory over Tottenham, will be looking to make a statement by toppling the champions once again, following their triumphs last season at the Emirates and in the Community Shield.
Match Details
- Location: Manchester, England
- Stadium: Etihad Stadium
- Date: Sunday, 22 September
- Kick-off Time: 21:15 (NST) | 11:30 (ET) | 08:30 (PT)
- Referee: Michael Oliver
- VAR: John Brooks
Head-to-Head Record (Last Five Games)
- Man City: 2 Wins
- Arsenal: 2 Wins
- Draws: 1
Manchester City Team News
City’s midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne remains a serious doubt for Sunday’s showdown due to the groin injury sustained against Inter in the Champions League. Despite Pep Guardiola not completely ruling him out, his absence is almost certain. He joins Nathan Ake and Oscar Bobb on the sidelines, limiting Guardiola’s options.
The good news for City fans is the return of Rodri, who adds crucial stability to the midfield, while Phil Foden made an appearance from the bench midweek, recovering from illness that affected him after Euro 2024. Kyle Walker could feature to strengthen the defense, and Mateo Kovacic might also return to the starting XI. All eyes will be on Erling Haaland, who’s eager to extend his tally of nine Premier League goals, while Jack Grealish may earn a spot on the left flank ahead of Jeremy Doku.
Predicted Man City lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defenders: Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Rodri, Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish
- Forward: Erling Haaland
Arsenal Team News
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is set to miss the crucial clash, with Mikel Arteta confirming the midfielder’s injury is "quite significant," potentially sidelining him for several weeks. Kai Havertz filled in during Arsenal's recent Champions League draw, but Jorginho could be handed the start against City.
Jurrien Timber is expected to continue at left-back due to injuries to Kieran Tierney, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, though Riccardo Calafiori’s return might provide some competition for the role. Meanwhile, if Havertz leads the attack, Leandro Trossard could shift back to the left wing, battling with Gabriel Martinelli for a starting berth.
Predicted Arsenal lineup (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
- Defenders: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Jurrien Timber
- Midfielders: Thomas Partey, Jorginho, Declan Rice
- Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard