Arsenal-Manchester City: Matchups to Watch

Image: thesun.co.uk

LONDON, U.K. - This weekend, Arsenal and Manchester City will clash in what will most likely be a pivotal game in terms of the Premier League title race. Although this match will be decided by performances from the entire team, there are definitely some key matchups to watch.

William Saliba versus Erling Haaland

Starting with a defense versus offense matchup, this matchup could be key in determining who goes on to win this game. If Saliba or Haaland is able to win their battles, their club will have a definite advantage. Expect a tight battle between these two players. 

Martin Ødegaard versus Julián Álvarez

Moving to the center of the park, we have a more skillful matchup between Ødegaard and Álvarez. Playing in a different position than normal, Álvarez will look to create Manchester City’s attacks and control the tempo of the game. On the other side, Ødegaard will be looking to feed the ball to the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Leandro Trossard, or potentially come up with a goal himself.

Image: Getty

Mikel Arteta versus Pep Guardiola

Taking place off the pitch, this matchup will be most interesting in terms of tactics. Who will get their tactics right? It will also be interesting to see how both managers go into this game. Will Guardiola go with his usual 4-2-3-1 formation even with the absence of Rodrigo or will he keep the 4-3-3 formation from their 3-1 victory against RB Leipzig? Overall, it will be an interesting battle on the touchlines between Arteta and Guardiola.