Arsenal vs Manchester City: Odegaard explains real reason behind fierce new Premier League rivalry

Arsenal and Manchester City have emerged as the Premier League’s fiercest rivals, battling for supremacy in recent seasons.

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As the Gunners prepare to face Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens, captain Martin Odegaard has provided insight into why this rivalry has become so intense.

Arsenal and Manchester City’s last encounter ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw, featuring controversial refereeing decisions, late goals, and fiery exchanges between players and managers.

From Erling Haaland’s “stay humble” remark to Mikel Arteta, to the Norwegian clashing with Gabriel Magalhaes, emotions frequently boiled over.

However, Odegaard insists that these heated moments are simply a natural part of competing at the highest level.

Speaking to British media ahead of the upcoming clash, he explained, "I think in football, games like this, the emotions are so high, and the adrenaline is there. That’s something that can happen on the pitch, and then when you walk off, you’re done with it."

The Norwegian midfielder also acknowledged the off-pitch friendships between players, particularly with national teammates like Haaland, but emphasised that once the game starts, it’s all about winning at any cost.

Manchester City have been Arsenal’s biggest obstacle in their bid to reclaim the Premier League title, finishing ahead of the Gunners in 2022-23 and taking the title race down to the wire last season as well.

Now, Arsenal sit second in the league with 47 points, just behind Liverpool, while Manchester City are fourth with 41 points. Both teams head into this match in top form after securing victories in their Champions League fixtures.

With Mikel Arteta’s side desperate to be the ones to end Manchester City’s dominance, this clash at the Emirates Stadium promises to be another thrilling battle and the latest chapter in what has quickly become the Premier League’s most exciting modern-day rivalry.