PL: Arsenal v Manchester City

Doors open at 10a. Opposition supporters categorically not welcome.

Here we go...

With the insane run of nine matches in a month now mercifully behind them, Arsenal's upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City presents a pivotal opportunity to strengthen their title aspirations. Following a brief dip in early January that saw the Gunners hanging on by a thread in one domestic cup competition and exiting another, Mikel Arteta's side has rebounded impressively, securing crucial league victories and maintaining a strong position in the table. Last time out, a hard-fought 1-0 win over Wolves was achieved despite being reduced to ten men following a controversial, promptly-rescinded red card issued by referee Michael Oliver to Miles Lewis-Skelly. The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a 2-2 draw, a match marred by Leandro Trossard's controversial sending-off by...Michael Oliver...which left Arsenal to defend with ten men for the majority of the second half. Despite this setback, the team demonstrated resilience, nearly securing a win before conceding a 98th minute equaliser. Arsenal will be eager to avenge that result and assert dominance over the reigning champions.

City, under Pep Guardiola, have experienced a noticeable decline in form this season, with inconsistent performances and unexpected defeats raising concerns about their title defence. Despite this downturn, City have recently managed to string together a series of positive results, albeit often unconvincingly. The Citizens sit fourth in the table, six points behind their hosts. The side faced a nervy finish to their Champions League campaign, requiring a comeback victory over Club Brugge to advance to the playoff round, where they are set to face Real Madrid. In contrast, Arsenal finished third in the league stage, securing direct entry to the Round of 16. The ongoing absence of Rodri due to season-ending injury in the reverse fixture further compounds their challenges.

We more than owe them one. Let's do this. The only thing else left to say? Pack. The. Pub.

VCC

UTA KEEP THE FAITH ✊