Man City vs Arsenal: 5 key battles that could decide Premier League title showdown

Manchester City vs Arsenal already has tongues wagging.

The two sides clash at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon in a match that could play a big role in the Premier League title race. As it stands, Arsenal sit top the league and just one point clear of Pep Guardiola ’s side.

With Liverpool playing earlier in the day against Brighton, top spot could potentially be up for grabs for both sides. Given Arsenal and City have won 39 games between them already this season, fans could be in for a cracker.

Gabriel Martinelli scored the all-important goal the last time the pair met. So, who could be the hero this time around? Mirror Football takes a look...

Rodri vs Declan Rice

Arguably two of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League - if not the world - the game could potentially be decided by this mouthwatering tussle in the middle of the park. While their disruptive abilities could prove crucial, both Rodri and Rice are capable of scoring some crucial goals.

The Spaniard already has seven goals for City this term, alongside 11 assists. Meanwhile, Rice has six goals and seven assists to his name in all competitions this season. It’s going to be quite a battle in the heart of midfield. Whoever is victorious could go a long way in deciding the game.

Rodri has been vital once more for Man City this season
(Image: Getty Images)

Which side will win in Man City vs Arsenal? Share your predictions in the comments below

Erling Haaland vs William Saliba

It would be remiss not to mention the Premier League’s top goalscorer. While not quite as prolific as his debut season, Erling Haaland has still scored 18 Premier League goals this term.

He comes across a player having his own brilliant season in William Saliba. The Frenchman has been key to helping Arsenal to the meanest defence in the league this season.

He also underlined his abilities on international duty with France by producing a brilliant, goal-saving challenge. If Saliba can keep Haaland quiet, he will provide a huge helping hand to his side.

Rico Lewis vs Leandro Trossard

Kyle Walker is a huge doubt for Man City heading into the weekend after suffering a hamstring injury on England duty. That could see his Three Lions replacement Rico Lewis called upon.

The youngster continues to earn increasing trust from Guardiola. He will likely have Belgian forward Leandro Trossard to look after this weekend due to Gabriel Martinelli’s injury. Trossard has scored five goals in his last nine appearances for Arsenal so will be looking to get on the scoresheet once more.

Ruben Dias vs Kai Havertz

Due to a number of injuries across the City backline, it is tough to predict who will start in the heart of defence. Given he has a clean bill of health, Portugal star Dias appears the most likely to get the nod.

He will come up against a Kai Havertz who is arguably in the best run of form he has enjoyed since moving to the Premier League. The German has scored in each of his last four Premier League games, while he also found the net against France during the international break.

It goes without saying that he will be keen to extend that electric run at the Etihad, while Dias will certainly be out to stop him.

Kai Havertz has scored in his last four Premier League appearances
(Image: Getty Images)

Bernardo Silva vs Martin Odegaard

While Rice and Rodri are arguably two of the best defensive midfielders in the league, it is not bold to suggest that going forwards, Odegaard and Bernardo Silva are some of the best on offer. The former Real Madrid has really stepped up to the plate for Arsenal over the past two seasons.

His creativity and goal threat sees him boast 12 contributions in the Premier League so far. His eye for a pass could be key for Arsenal as they attempt to unlock City.

Elsewhere, Silva’s relentless work rate will be a huge help in out-working Arsenal. The Portuguese also has an eye for goal, too, with six strikes so far this term

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