The Emirates hosts another blockbuster Premier League clash this weekend as Arsenal welcome Manchester City in what is quickly becoming the defining fixture of the English title race. Pep Guardiola faces his former apprentice Mikel Arteta once again, with the rivalry now layered in battles, bruises, and unforgettable moments, from Haaland’s infamous “stay humble, eh” to Arsenal’s stunning 5-1 win last season.
This GW5 showdown carries massive weight for the title picture. Arsenal can assert themselves as Liverpool’s primary rival, while City desperately want revenge and the chance to pull themselves back into the mix.
When & Where?
Fixture: Arsenal vs Manchester City
Competition: Premier League (GW5)
Venue: Emirates Stadium
Date: Sunday, 21 September 2025
Kick-off: 4:30pm BST
Arsenal vs Manchester City: Match Preview
Arsenal
Arsenal have made a strong start to the season (W3 L1), sitting just behind Liverpool in the table. Their backline remains the most solid in the league, marshalled by Gabriel and soon-to-return William Saliba.
However, Arteta’s men still struggle with chance creation in open play, ranking 10th in xG despite facing bottom-half sides like Leeds and Forest. That’s where big-money summer arrivals Viktor Gyökeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke must step up.
Arsenal Team News vs Manchester City
Bukayo Saka: Out with a hamstring issue.
William Saliba: Expected to return to the XI.
Martin Ødegaard: Shoulder doubt, but pushing to feature.
Ben White: Back fit but may not start.
Arsenal Predicted XI vs Man City: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi, Ødegaard; Madueke, Gyökeres, Eze
Manchester City
City enter this game buoyed by a 3-0 demolition of Manchester United, but their season has already exposed flaws. Losses to Tottenham and Brighton highlighted structural weaknesses in midfield and defence.
Pep has retooled the squad, bringing in Tijjani Reijnders, Donnarumma, and relying on Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden for attacking spark. But the real question remains: can they withstand Arsenal’s physicality and set-piece threat?
Man City Team News vs Arsenal
Rayan Ait-Nouri: Out 5 weeks (ankle).
Omar Marmoush & Rayan Cherki: Both sidelined.
John Stones: Doubtful.
Gvardiol & Donnarumma: Fit to start.
Man City Predicted XI vs Arsenal: Donnarumma; Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol, Ake; Rodri; Reijnders, Foden; Bernardo Silva, Haaland, Doku
Arsenal vs Man City Prediction
Expect a tense battle, with both sides cautious early before opening up in the second half. Arsenal’s defensive solidity and home advantage should give them the edge, but City’s attacking threat will ensure it stays balanced.
Predicted Score: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester City
