Match Predictions: Arsenal vs Manchester City

Arsenal vs Manchester City — Premier League Match Preview

Date: Sunday, 21 September 2025
Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
Kick-off: ~4:30 p.m. BST

Arsenal are sitting second in the table behind Liverpool, having started the season strongly.
Manchester City are around eighth place currently — some inconsistency has crept into their campaign, though they remain one of the title contenders.
This match is expected to be pivotal: a win for Arsenal would consolidate their position toward a title challenge; for City, a win would be a statement to get back into top form.

Arsenal

Captain Martin Ødegaard is doubtful due to a shoulder issue.
Bukayo Saka is recovering from a hamstring injury and is also out or doubtful.
Centre back William Saliba is another concern with fitness question.

Manchester City

City are missing Mateo Kovacic (Achilles), Omar Marmoush (knee), and Rayan Cherki (thigh) as confirmed absentees.
Other squad members may be rotated given City’s recent UCL and league fixtures. (No major new injury reports beyond those listed.)

Arsenal’s strengths lie in a solid defensive record at home and a strong set-piece threat this season. They’ve conceded very few goals and are unbeaten in their recent matches against City.
City typically dominate possession, create high expected goals (xG), and find ways to unlock defences via dynamic attacking movement. Their pressure will test Arsenal’s defensive discipline.
Key duels to watch could include how Arsenal’s full-backs respond to City’s wingers, and whether City can cope with Arsenal’s counter-attacks and set-pieces given some of City’s absences.

Given Arsenal’s current home form and City’s injury plus rotation concerns, this looks likely to be a tight, tactical match.
A draw seems possible, though Arsenal may have a slight edge at home.
Predicted Scoreline: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester City