Arsenal was brought back down to earth after a surprising loss to QPR last week. They must win to ensure that they remain third in the Premier League.
The feeling in the Arsenal camp was great prior to the game against QPR; however, following the loss in the London derby, one cannot help but feel that another crisis is just around the corner for Arsene Wenger’s men. As far as crises are concerned, Manchester City is seemingly undergoing one at the moment. Roberto Mancini’s men failed to win for the first time in 21 home league matches.

City has not been able to carry their fantastic form from early on in the season to this part of the season. Last week, City had to pull off an almost improbable escape. From 1-3 down, City came back to level the scores at 3-3 against Sunderland. If City does lose to Arsenal, they can almost say goodbye to the title even with the Manchester derby on the horizon.

Thomas Vermaelen had to take the blame for both of the goals Arsenal conceded against QPR on Saturday. The performance was poor overall as far as Arsenal is concerned. Arsenal’s ‘young’ team loses confidence rather easily when they lose a single match as witnessed by their two previous crisis periods. Also, Robin Van Persie has failed to find the back of the net in the last three matches.

Arsenal and City have met each other twice this season already- one of those meetings came in the Carling Cup at the Emirates. Samir Nasri was booed heavily in that match. Arsenal created the bulk of the chances and was the better side throughout but conceded a late goal to lose 0-1. Sergio Aguero was the hero of the match.

The Premier League game between these two sides was much more exciting than the match in the Carling Cup. The match was a great advert for the Premier League. Both teams played breath-taking, mouth watering football. City once again won 1-0 courtesy of a goal from David Silva.

Francis Coquelin, Abou Diaby, Per Mertesacker and Jack Wilshere are all injured. Mertesacker as we all know is out for the season. City hardly has any injury worries to deal with. Sergio Aguero, Samir Nasri and Joleon Lescott are all doubtful. Considering the reception Nasri would receive, Mancini might have opted to start him on the bench anyways. Carlos Tevez might start considering his recent substitute appearances have all been good.

Arsenal has failed to score against City in five of the previous six meetings between these two sides. However, the side from North London has won their previous four home games in the Premier League. In each of those matches, they have struck at-least twice. United has a five point lead over City currently.

There are no favourites for this match. City might have beaten Arsenal twice already this season but their current form does not guarantee another win over the Gunners. One cannot forget that Arsenal has won seven out of their previous eight games.

Prediction: Arsenal 3-2 City