Arsenal vs Manchester City Preview

Arsenal is home to Manchester City this weekend, marking the toughest test of the young season. Although the two have already played against each other, that was not a complete Man City squad. Arsenal has had a sub-par beginning to the season and they don’t have what it takes to win this game. There is a high chance Arsenal draws, but my prediction is a loss in a tight game. Here is my full prediction and reasoning.

Prediction: Arsenal 1 – 3 Man City

1) A Physical Manchester City Holding Midfield

 Yaya Toure and Fernando are going to be the players tasked with breaking up the small, light weight Arsenal defense. The Arsenal midfield has shown in the past that it doesn’t respond well to physically dominating midfielders. Unfortunately, City’s holding midfield is one of the most, if not the most, dominating midfields in England. The Arsenal midfield have not been on the same page yet, and I don’t see the midfield capable of fixing those problems against this defense.

Jul 30, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Liverpool FC goalkeeper Simon Mignolet (22) makes a save on Manchester City FC defender Yaya Toure (42) during penalty kicks of a game at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

2) Aaron Ramsey

I understand why players want to play for their country, but when it comes to Arsenal players, it seems like they always get injured while on international duty. Although Aaron Ramsey is said to be fit, he needs to be 100% to make a difference in this game. I think he will show glimpses of those magnificent runs, but I don’t think they will happen often enough to make a difference this time.

3) David Silva

Last time these tow teams played Silva only played the second half, and it was clear that when he is on the pitch, City plays in a very different way. David Silva does everything for the City midfield. Not only does he bring the ball up in a counter-attack, he also distributes the ball with a Xavi like touch. He will be a difference yet again, and will help the City attack against the Arsenal defense.

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