Arsenal legend Ian Wright says his former club are in “a perfect headspace” to play an in-form Manchester City on Sunday.
The Gunners head into the match off the back of winning the North London derby and, speaking to Premier League Productions, Wright said he is now keenly anticipating the top-of-the-table clash against the champions:
“He’s in top form, Haaland, and so are they, and Arsenal know it’s a game – I think they have to beat City. I’m not saying you have to beat them twice but you have to beat these guys at least once, and I’m looking forward to the game simply because we [Arsenal] are in a perfect headspace to take on City.”
Both clubs will go into the game at the Etihad unbeaten in the league, although Pep Guardiola’s side are the only team left with a 100% record.
City only took one point off Arsenal last season
It should be pointed out that the Cityzens didn’t actually fare too well in the two fixtures against the Gunners during the 2023/24 campaign.
Guardiola’s men lost 1-0 at the Emirates back in October last year before drawing the home match 0-0 at the end of March.
Even so, City ended up winning the league by two points. It does demonstrate that these meetings may not necessarily prove decisive in the title race.
Early team news ahead of Manchester City v Arsenal
It should be noted that both clubs will play in the Champions League midweek, with City taking on Inter Milan on Wednesday night and the Gunners facing Atalanta the following evening. It means that the availability of some players may change.
For City, Nathan Ake and Oscar Bobb have already been ruled out. Arsenal, meanwhile, currently have seven players on the sidelines, but it is believed Bukayo Saka will be in contention despite picking up a knock against Tottenham.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
