3 questions heading into Arsenal’s huge game against Man City

There were so many points of disappointment Tuesday night in France as Arsenal were tested on the road for the first time in the Champions League at Lens.

The mistakes made by David Raya and the over-commitment by Oleksandr Zinchenko in the midfield were exploited massively by the French side as they won 2-1.

Maybe on better days, there are better finishes in the box by Reiss Nelson and Takheiro Tomiyasu, but it just was not Arsenal’s night.

The biggest disappointment was the manager once again not giving Bukayo Saka a rest. I understand that he wanted to field a strong team, but Saka has now come off limping in the last three matches. Now, a huge Premier League contest awaits the Gunners as the champions come to town.

3 questions heading into Arsenal’s huge game against Man City

Here are 3 questions that need to be answered against Manchester City.

1. Should the manager rest Saka?

It may be good news that Gareth Southgate called up Saka for England’s upcoming games. Maybe he’s privy to info from Arteta that we don’t know. Though it is a massive game versus Manchester City, seeing Saka come off three matches in a row should tell the manager that his superstar needs some rest.

If Saka is not fully fit, the manager should rest him.

The match with City is massive but if Saka is lost for an extended period, it could put Arsenal’s season in jeopardy for every competition they are in, not just the race for the Premier League title. I would have rather Arteta rest him against Bournemouth or Lens, but there is no backtracking. Resting him against City should be an option to consider.

2. Should Ramsdale supplant Raya?

Raya made a massive mistake that led to Lens tying up the match when he played a goal kick to the opposing side.

Granted Lens were exceptional on the attack and the finish past Raya was world-class, but if the manager is saying the best player should start at the position, then Raya certainly has a lot to answer for this week. Should the manager follow his philosophy, then maybe Ramsdale should get the nod in goal against City. Lens’ high press gave Raya and the left side of the Arsenal defence some problems.

The Ligue 1 side have quality players, but they are not on City’s level. The manner in which they were able to disrupt our rhythm in the second half was a concern considering City’s pressing capabilities.

3. Can Arteta finally beat Pep in a big match?

Yes, Arteta beat Pep in the 2020 FA Cup semi-finals and earlier this year in the Community Shield. But here it is for Arteta, a chance to prove his mettle on the Premier League stage.

Pep came to the Emirates and the Cityzens destroyed Arsenal last season and they replicated that performance at the Etihad, stamping down their authority.

If Arsenal are serious about knocking them off the perch, then Arteta must at the very least grab a draw if not better grab all three points.

With the Gunners nursing some injuries, it will be a tall task.