Arsenal: 4 requirements needed to beat Manchester City

2. Take the Few Chances That Present Themselves

This is perhaps the biggest one. Arsenal has a knack for missing glorious opportunities, only for the opposition to go down the other end and put the ball into the net.

Against City it’s widely expected that chances for the Gunners will be few and far between, so when an opportunity does present itself there needs to be similarly high levels of clinical finishing that were, for example, shown at Carrow Road. City doesn’t dish them out like chocolates in the festive period. Their total of 12.73 xG against this season is, no surprises, the lowest in the division.

The likes of Alexandre Lacazette (who is guilty of spurning a big chance or two), Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli will all need their shooting boots on if the Gunners are to take anything from this game.

Two of the last three league meetings have ended 1-0 to City so Arsenal has shown that they can hang with the best even during times of weakness. However, inevitably, City breaks down a stubborn Gunners team and grabs the three points. Arsenal haven’t scored in their last five meetings with Guardiola’s side.

Chances can’t be wasted against City as Arsenal have dragged themselves back from oblivion to be in the hunt for a top-four spot. An early goal would set the tone and with the raucous home crowd behind them, anything can happen.

But chances must be taken.

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