A very important clash for the title race and the top four competition, Arsenal visit Manchester City to fight for their top 4 status. The previous match between them was a draw as Arsenal gave up the lead in the dying moments at Emirates. While Arsenal have always shown good form at Emirates, their recent form at the Etihad has been poor. Here is the team of eleven players combined from both the Giants of this tantalizing league.
Defence:
Joe Hart
Joe Hart has had a decent season so far with no real goalkeeping errors. He has firmly established himself as the first choice against a capable Willy Caballero.
Pablo Zabaleta
The Argentine fullback has been one of the best performers for Man City. His approach has been very balanced as he stepped up with crucial offensive as well as defensive displays when the team needed it.
Vincent Kompany
The Citizens’ skipper is one of the best center backs in the world and is expected to feature if fully fit. He would definitely give Arsenal strikers a real test.
Laurent Koscielny
He is the first Arsenal player who makes this list. He has proved himself to be one of the best defenders in the league over the last few seasons and has been reliable for the Gunners barring a few errors.
Gael Clichy
The former Arsenal man has emerged as the first choice left back for Man City in a fiercely competitive position for the Champions with Aleksander Kolarov also fighting for the spot. General consensus is that his overall display has been more consistent than Kolarov’s offensive approach.
Midfield:
Fernandinho
Usually the quiet man in midfield, the Brazilian would have to take the initiative in Toure’s absence during the month. Arsenal would be a strong test for him but he has proved himself to be a good performer.
Santi Cazorla
The twinkle toed Spaniard has been in great form recently and his link up with Sanchez has been Arsenal’s strength this season. With Ozil back in the team, he’ll have to maintain his consistency and performing in the big games would help him keep his favourite midfield position for himself.
David Silva
The playmaker has been an important player for Man City in their rise back to form. He has shown adaptability to play in various positions, sometimes popping up as a false nine as well. He would be City’s chief orchestrator in Toure’s absence.
James Milner
Milner is the in form engine for Man City. His running power was always his strength, but the decisiveness in his performances have caught everyone’s eye. Arsenal would want to keep this dark horse in check for sure.
Offense:
Alexis Sanchez
He has been the most in-form player in the Premier League this season as he has driven Arsenal with his goals and assists. He is considered as one of the best signings by Gunners and in the Premier League as well, since quite some time as he took to the English league like a duck takes to water.
Sergio Aguero
He’s expected to make a return from injury and City fans would expect him to keep his red hot form going as he has scored 19 goals in 17 starts this season before his injury. He would provide Arsenal with all sorts of problems with his speed and movement.