How Arsenal can beat Manchester City at the Etihad

2. Get Partey and Saka Involved

Man City have defensive problems of their own as Nathan Aké picked up an injury on Champions League duty last week, and his absence will come as music to the ears of Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End star rarely disappoints and was one of the few players who delivered during the comeback draw against Southampton, but Aké’s 1v1 skills saw him struggle to make an impact in our recent meetings with the Champions. Alternative full-back choices will therefore encounter difficulty in their efforts to contain Saka and this could give Arsenal the upper hand in the final third.

Prospects of victory may similarly rest on Thomas Partey and how he is used by Arteta. On Friday, the Ghanaian frequently dropped into the backline to boost ball progression yet still had to perform in midfield alongside the ineffective Fabio Vieira – an unfavourable partnership that contributed to our defensive vulnerability.

A similar ploy might prove more successful in Manchester as Partey’s superior press resistance to Holding is hugely important in build-up phases, while the likely return of Granit Xhaka will allow us to keep the ball better and provide enhanced security at the back during transitions.

They are two key figures who need to be at their best if we are to get three points.

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