Premier League Matchweek 5: Master and pupil clash at the Etihad - Preview, Predictions and Betting tips

Premier League Matchweek 5: Master and pupil clash at the Etihad - Preview, Predictions and Betting tips

Mikel Arteta faces his former boss in the league for the first time on Saturday at the Etihad.
(Photo credit: Skysports.com)

When referee Chris Kavanagh blows his whistle for the kickoff at the Etihad on Saturday, Arsenal would be starting a game against Manchester City, right above the Citizens for the first time five seasons.

 

Manchester City were handed a break following their involvements in the UEFA Champions League at the tail end of last season and for that reason has a game at hand against Burnley.

However, their false start to the season which has seen them win only one of their three league games so far means they are five points behind Arsenal, strange to say the least.

Arsenal fought quite hard to beat Sheffield United just before the break and earned a place in the top four, one they can strengthen if they do what they haven’t done in three seasons, beat Manchester City. 

Arsenal have been quite successful against Manchester United in the FA Cup, most recently beating Pep Guardiola’s side to reach the final on their way to the record fourteenth cup success but have been found wanting of late in the league against the Citizens.

There are lots of issues with Manchester City at the moment, they shipped five against Leicester City and couldn’t find a way past Leeds United in their stalemate.

With Marcelo Bielsa’s side roaring hard, Guardiola had to introduce defenders to shore things up, as it stands, there are cracks and Arsenal can exploit it if they’re daring enough.

Arsenal added Thomas Partey on deadline day, a strong voice in the middle of the park, should he be thrown into the fray straight away, he will give Arsenal a great presence.

With news reporting injury to Kevin De Bruyne, he will be sorely missed if he doesn’t get the nod from the medical experts.

Pep Guardiola will definitely go for a win, so who does he call on upfront?

Sergio Aguero is believed to be fit, he has a very good record against Arsenal and will come handy in place of the fit again, but quite wasteful Gabriel Jesus.

In the middle for Manchester City, they must exert pressure and dominate as usual early, this time, it shouldn’t be business as usual. 

Pep Guardiola will face his protégé for the first time in the league, all eyes will be watching.

Betting prediction: Both teams to score