Manchester City vs Arsenal: Prediction, possible lineups and tactics for Etihad showdown

Manchester City's flawless start to the season will face its toughest examination yet when Arsenal visit the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's team have started the season with a 100% record, but Mikel Arteta's side will provide their toughest test yet.

Last season, Arsenal enjoyed the upper hand in meetings between the two, securing wins at the Emirates Stadium and in the Community Shield, as well as a draw on the road.

As City seeks to maintain their perfect record, they'll have to do so without key midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who suffered an injury in their midweek Champions League clash against Inter. Nathan Ake will also miss out.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will be without injured captain Martin Odegaard and summer signing Riccardo Calafiori.

Manchester City (4-2-3-1)

Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, Silva, Grealish; Haaland

Arsenal (4-3-3)

Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Partey, Jorginho, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard

Arsenal have kept 5 clean sheets from their opening 6 games this season, which means we can expect another tight affair on Sunday evening.

There was just one goal scored in both legs last season, with the Gunners keeping a low block and earning a point at the Etihad in April.

Our full time prediction for this game is a narrow win for the champions, with a 2-1 scoreline.