Preview: Final preparations to be made in Helsinki
At the moment, expectations for Arsenal and Manchester City could be slightly different heading into the 2013/14 campaign.
For Arsenal fans, they have endured yet another off season with no big name signings, despite Arsene Wenger and Ivan Gazidis claiming that the Gunners were ready to spend. After failing to sign Gonzalo Higuain, it appears the London side is set to miss out on Luis Suarez, who may be staying at Liverpool, at least for the time being.
The Citizens head into the new campaign with some new faces, and a new manager. Manuel Pellegrini's arrival at the Etihad Stadium has brought the squad a more fluent attack.
Under Roberto Mancini, City struggled to get the most out of their potent offense. Now with the former Malaga manager in charge, the Citizens not only have strong starting XI, but they also have a significant amount of depth, which could launch them to a second EPL title in three years.
Knowing he is under pressure to make a big signing, Arsene Wenger has remained calm through all of this. And after his sides showing in the Emirates Cup, another poor performance on Saturday would really raise some serious questions.
Arsenal traveled to Finland with sixteen players, but Wenger is confident that who ever he chooses to start, will put in a solid effort.
"For us it is a good opportunity to play against Man City," Wenger told Arsenal.com. "What is important is to have a good competition level one week before the season starts."
Fortunately for City fans, regardless of who starts, they know that they will have a world class squad. All of Pellegrini's additions to the squad have had a chance to get acclimated with their new teammates, having taken part in the Asia Tour, as well as the Audi Cup.
Playing in front of a sold out crowd on Saturday, fans could finally catch a glimpse of Sergio Aguero, who has not featured for the club since their visit to the United States after the season came to an end. Having played his last match in May against Chelsea in New York City, Aguero is still lacking match fitness, but there is no doubt he will be a key figure to the squad once again.
While City will not want to coast through this match, Arsenal needs a performance that can at least keep fans hopeful.
The Gunners will open the new campaign at home against Aston Villa in a week, meaning that they should be near full fitness for tomorrow's match. The same can be said for City, who will take on Newcastle at the Etihad next week. Fans will be in for a fascinating match, with two sides who attack very well.
Where to watch the match - live stream, start time, TV channels
Watch Manchester City vs Arsenal live:
In the USA at 10:00 ET on: beIN Sport
Internationally on Arsenal TV
For viewers in other countries, please check our TV Listings page for full detail on where you can watch this highly entertaining match.
