Starting this player, how to bypass the City block and the attitude needed to win

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has equated the clash with Arsenal as the Premier League 2025-26 final.

Last time the two met, City tactically exposed an injury-plagued Arsenal side, fashioning a 2-0 win that clinched the Carabao Cup.

Much has happened since then; Arsenal have been knocked out of the FA Cup, suffered a defeat to Bournemouth, yet also just did enough to secure a Champions League semi-final spot. 

But all of that is behind them now. Arsenal need to deliver, find their rhythm and keep winning if they want to keep their title hopes alive.

Six points ahead of City, who have played a game less, a win would give Arsenal a comfortable cushion at the top. A defeat to the Manchester Blues, however, would cut the gap to just three points, heaping further pressure on the boys in red and white, because should City win their game in hand, the two sides would be level on points.

Arsenal have no excuses but to bring their A-game. Injuries, though, will still be a concern.

Bukayo Saka is confirmed to miss the game. Noni Madueke came off with a knock against Sporting CP, though Arteta was hopeful he would be fit. Ricardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard all remain doubtful; even so, given the sheer magnitude of the occasion, Arteta will surely field the strongest side he possibly can.

We could see Arsenal line up as follows:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie 

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Havertz, Trossard

Why Havertz over Gyokeres:

Havertz can drop deep and link up play far more effectively. Gyokeres is a fine finisher, but with Havertz leading the line, Arsenal's attack would be more fluid, creating the space for the wingers to attack. The German could keep the City defence occupied before Gyokeres is introduced from the bench to prey on tired legs.

That said, in the Carabao Cup final, City caused Arsenal problems by exploiting their weakness in playing out from the back, something Bournemouth also capitalised on. 

Starting Havertz would be logical as one option for Raya would be to go long to Havertz. The Arsenal number 10, say Eze, and a winger should move up closer to him and give support moving the team further up the field.

Alternatively Raya could chip balls to either wing as City in their four man press involve their wingers and/or their full backs leaving space behind them. 

If Arteta has found a solution to that vulnerability, City are certainly beatable. However implausible an Arsenal victory may seem after the recent dire performances that have been served. 

Especially if the Arsenal players play with gusto, confidence and belief.