3 reasons why Arteta's Arsenal will end Manchester City's Etihad hegemony
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Master vs Apprentice: Pep Guardiola and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta (Photo Credit: Imago)

FOOTBALL 3 reasons why Arteta's Arsenal will end Manchester City's Etihad hegemony

3 reasons why Arteta's Arsenal will end Manchester City's Etihad hegemony

Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:47 - 30.03.2024

Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal go into the title decider against Manchester City with a chance to take all three points at the Etihad for the first time since 2015.

With Arsenal sitting just a point above Manchester City in the table and the potential for an enthralling title race, this weekend's clash at the Etihad promises to be a crucial match.

Ahead of that potential explosive clash, here are three reasons that point to a potential Arsenal victory that could further cement their status as genuine title contenders.

Arsenal's Unstoppable Form

The Gunners have been on a remarkable run, winning their last eight Premier League matches by an aggregate score of 33-4.

This kind of form is usually indicative of title-winning seasons, with Arsenal achieving nine or more consecutive wins in only three previous campaigns - all of which resulted in league titles.

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have scored 33 goals in their last eight matches
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have scored 33 goals in their last eight matches. (Credit: Imago)

The Gunners' current momentum and confidence will be a significant advantage as they take on the reigning champions.

Manchester City's Struggles Against Top Sides

Despite their overall dominance in the league, Manchester City have struggled against the top teams this season.

Man City players have had little to celebrate against top teams this season.
Man City players have had little to celebrate against top teams this season. || Imago

Pep Guardiola’s men have failed to beat any of the teams currently in the top five, losing to Arsenal and Aston Villa, and drawing with Liverpool and Tottenham.

This trend of underperforming against the best oppositions could play into Arsenal's hands, as Mikel Arteta’s Gunners look to assert their title credentials.

Man City boss, Pep Guardiola will be looking for a first win against a top five team.
Man City boss, Pep Guardiola will be looking for a first win against a top five team.

Manchester City's Second-Half Woes

In their recent high-profile fixtures, Manchester City have shown a concerning trend of struggling in the second half.

Against Liverpool before the international break, City were outshot 12-3 and had an Expected Goals figure of just 2.14 after the break according to the Premier League, managing only one second-half goal.

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This vulnerability in the latter stages of matches could be exploited by a rampaging Arsenal side that has shown the ability to grind out results and see out games.

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Arsenal Manchester City Premier League