Prediction: Arsenal vs Manchester City

Prediction: Manchester City win

Best Odds: 8/25

Bookmaker: 888sport

While a handful of Premier League fixtures are still taking place this weekend, we’re also going to be switching our focus towards the semi-finals of the FA Cup. The world’s oldest club competition is set to come to an end over the course of the next few weeks, and in a rare occurrence, all four of the semi-finalists this year are top six clubs. Today, we’ll be taking a look at arguably the most important of the two semis as Arsenal prepare to face Manchester City.

Arsenal

It’s clear to see that the Gunners will struggle to even qualify for the UEFA Europa League through their league position this season, and therefore, it makes sense for them to focus a good chunk of their attention on the FA Cup. They’ve been able to overcome the odds in this competition before, and while beating City is no small task, this side has been able to show glimpses of greatness in the short time that Mikel Arteta has been at the helm.

Team News

Ceballos and Aubameyang are expected to feature after being rested, but there are still plenty of absences for Arsenal fans to worry about. Ozil is a doubt with Guendouzi still being in exile, whereas Soares is cup-tied. Elsewhere, Nketiah is suspended and Mari, Leno, Chambers & Martinelli are all out injured.

Manchester City

With their European ban having been overturned, the path is now clear for Manchester City to push on towards a strong end to the campaign. Pep Guardiola has this team riding a big wave of momentum, and while they’ve had their bumps along the way this season, it could still quite easily be viewed as a successful campaign – so long as they can win the FA Cup, the UEFA Champions League, or both.

Team News

The only injury absence for City is Sergio Aguero who is still on the shelf. Bravo has been the club’s domestic cup keeper and looks set to replace Ederson here, but aside from that, many expect the boss to put out his strongest available starting XI.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in June, Man City beat Arsenal 3-0.
• Arsenal have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Man City have won five and lost one of their last six games.
• Arsenal have scored 12 goals and conceded five in their last six games.
• Man City have scored 18 goals and conceded two in their last six games.

Conclusion

Arsenal will have to really get at City from the word go if they want to try and earn their respect, but given what we know about their defensive frailties, it doesn’t feel like they’ve got much of chance here. It’s only been a matter of weeks since they last went toe to toe, and we really don’t think all too much has changed between the two clubs. Arteta is going to become the master one day, but for the time being, Guardiola is quite clearly still the man with a plan.

Prediction: Manchester City win

Best Odds: 8/25

Bookmaker: 888sport