Manchester City vs Arsenal

Arsenal vs Manchester City Preview

Match details

Kick-off: September 21 2025, 16:30 BST

Stadium: Emirates Stadium

Confirmed lineups

Arsenal (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: David Raya
• Defenders: J. Timber, W. Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, R. Calafiori
• Midfielders: Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, D. Rice
• Forwards: N. Madueke, V. Gyökeres, L. Trossard

Manchester City (4-1-4-1)

• Goalkeeper: G. Donnarumma
• Defenders: A. Khusanov, Rúben Dias, J. Gvardiol, N. O'Reilly
• Midfielders: Rodri, Bernardo Silva, P. Foden, T. Reijnders
• Forwards: J. Doku, E. Haaland

Missing players

Arsenal will be without B. Saka, who is sidelined due to thigh problems, K. Havertz with jumper's knee, and Gabriel Jesus, also battling jumper's knee issues. Their absences could significantly impact the attacking dynamics.

Manchester City is missing K. Phillips, who is dealing with Achilles tendon problems. His absence will challenge City's midfield depth and defensive solidity.

Match background

This match sees Arsenal in strong form, currently sitting 3rd in the Premier League with 9 points, while Manchester City is in 12th place with 6 points. Both teams are looking to secure crucial points, especially as they aim for Champions League qualification.

Recent form

Arsenal enters the match with an impressive record, having won three of their last four encounters, showcasing a strong offense averaging 2.3 goals per game, coupled with a tight defense that has only conceded 1 goal so far.

Manchester City, however, has struggled recently, managing only 2 wins in their last four matches. Their offense has been effective, scoring 8 goals, but a defense leaking 4 goals has raised concerns that they must address urgently.

Head-to-head record

• February 2 2025: Arsenal 5-1 Manchester City
• September 22 2024: Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal
• March 31 2024: Manchester City 0-0 Arsenal
• October 8 2023: Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City

Prediction

Given Arsenal's current form and home advantage, they are favored to win this encounter. The absence of key players for both teams might lead to a tense game with limited scoring opportunities.

Betting tip: Arsenal to win.