Arsenal: 4 requirements needed to beat Manchester City

4. Be Stout Defensively

Years ago, this was Arsenal’s Achilles heel. Now it is something of a strength.

Aided by Aaron Ramsdale in goal, the Gunners backline is no longer a soft unit. His nine clean sheets this season is bettered only by Ederson’s 11. Arsenal’s improved compactness out of possession and growing understanding across the back five has been one of the major hallmarks of Arteta’s tenure. He has improved the team defensively above anywhere else.

However, this will be severely tested against City and the visitors will be on the front foot for the majority of the contest.

Gabriel and Benjamin White will have to watch their distances and communicate endlessly, joined in defence by the likely inclusion of Rob Holding, who has not fared well against this opposition of late. Kieran Tierney will have his work cut out on the left and the right-back, set to be White, will have the unenviable task of nullifying Raheem Sterling and Joao Cancelo’s immense quality on his side. It’s in these areas where the league leaders can punish any side in Europe.

Once City gets a sniff of blood in the water, it is a tough day for their opposition. Arsenal will have to be on their toes for the full 90 minutes. There are going to be (long) periods when the Gunners will be put under intense pressure and how they respond will tell us how far they have come as a unit.

Will it define the season? Of course not. It is as close to the definition of a ‘free hit’ as there is. However, if Arsenal are to get a positive result from this match then they’ll have to produce all of the above to stand any chance.