Arsenal v Manchester City: Match Preview

11 January 2013 12:07

Its second against sixth this Sunday as Manchester City travel to Arsenal on Sunday in what is a massive game for both sides. Arsenal are four points off top spot, and a win this weekend will be a massive confidence for the fans and the players. Whilst Manchester City currently trail Manchester United by 7 points.

With a game in hand over local rivals Tottenham Hotspur, and just 5 points behind, this is a must win game for Arsenal. The Gunners have failed to look there best this season, and currently sit sixth in what was Arsene Wenger's worst start as Arsenal boss. Arsene will look to steer his side back into the Champions League spot, and a potential victory over current Premier League champions Manchester City will send a huge message.

Manchester City currently trail United by 7 points, and with United facing a difficult fixture at home to Liverpool, the Citizens will look to pounce on any mistake United could make. No matter what happens this weekend, United will still top the league, however they could be ahead by a maximum of 10 points if City fail to beat Arsenal.

Sergio Aguero will be unavailable for the tie with a hamstring injury, meaning Carlos Tevez will be partnered with Edin Dzeko upfront.

Arsenal star Theo Walcott looks closer and closer to signing a new long term deal at the club, the England international will play upfront for the Gunners after his impressive performances so far this season.

Roberto Mancini takes his side to the Emirates Stadium with a number of key players missing. Yaya Toure and Kolo Toure have both joined up with the Ivory Coast national squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations. Sergio Aguero (hamstring) has been ruled out while former Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri is still serving a suspension after his red card against Norwich.

Aleksander Kolarov (groin), Maicon (knee), Micah Richards (knee) and Jack Rodwell (hamstring) are all long-term absentees.

This tie is massive for both sets of fans. Arsenal will need a victory to keep up with the top four, whilst Manchester City will need the three points to remain in contention with Manchester United. The Citizens could be 10 points behind the leaders, if results don't go their way.

Source: DSG