Premier League: Manchester City vs Arsenal preview, prediction, likely lineups

Arsenal's assault towards the Premier League title begins on Sunday as they travel to Manchester City looking to secure their first win at the Etihad since 2015.

The conclusion of the March international break signals the start of the run-in, and this is the last head-to-head fixture between the three title contenders. It's a huge encounter, and the victor will carry an unwavering sense of momentum heading into the final few weeks of the season.

Arsenal's title dream was dashed in Manchester in last season as they were battered by the Cityzens. However, there's an edge to the Gunners this time around, and their record in big games this season stands them in good stead heading into Sunday's duel.

City have several injury concerns from the international break, as do Arsenal, although both teams are expected to be close to full strength.

Man City Team News

The hosts have multiple concerns heading into Sunday's game, but the majority of City's doubts are expected to play.

Kyle Walker is said to be 50/50, as is John Stones. Manuel Akanji will be fine.

Ederson is expected to return earlier than projected from a thigh injury, while Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish are both training ahead of the game.

Arsenal Team News

Gabriel Martinelli, match-winner in the reverse fixture, remains a doubt with a foot injury. The Brazilian faces a race against time to be fit this weekend, and he'll likely make the bench if he does travel with the squad.

Bukayo Saka pulled out of international duty with a minor muscle injury, but the winger is expected to be fit for the trip to the Etihad. Gabriel, too, should feature from the start.

Jurrien Timber is closing in on a return, but this one might come too soon for the Dutchman. Thomas Partey and Takehiro Tomiyasu will both make the matchday squad.

Man City vs Arsenal Predicted Lineups

Man City: Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Ake; Rodri, De Bruyne, Kovacic; Bernardo, Haaland, Grealish.

Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Rice, Jorginho, Odegaard; Saka, Havertz, Trossard.

Prediction

City are still supreme, but they've certainly shown vulnerabilities this season which Arsenal can exploit through their slick build-up play and the utilisation of Havertz up top. Martinelli would be a big miss given the space Pep Guardiola's side surrender in behind.

This is a huge chance for Arsenal to grab the title race by the scruff of the neck and signal a potential changing of the guard.

Winning at the Etihad has proven to be an impossible task for so long, and while the Gunners are best placed now than they've been since 2015 to do so, Guardiola's side seemingly always find a way. I think they come from behind on Sunday to break Gooner hearts.

Prediction: Man City 2-1 Arsenal