Arsenal are suitable as the reigning Premier League champions and Champions League finalists, but the pre-season was uneven: victories over MK Dons and Girona, defeats against Betis and Dortmund, a 1-1 draw with Como. Guimaraes may make their debut in the starting line-up, and Tsolis surprised with his form. But without Saliba and Timber (injury), the defense is weaker, and the readiness of Rice and Saka is in question 🤕.
For Manchester City, this is the start of a new era – the first official match of Enzo Maresca instead of Guardiola. The form is not bad: a draw with Inter and two 3-1 wins in a row, with Marmouch’s last brace. But Rodri is recovering from surgery (and thinking about Barca), and Haaland has only just returned to training and will start from the bench 🪑.
Foden, Semenyo and Marmouch are in good shape and can cause problems for Arsenal’s weakened defense. Head-to-head history is also on City’s side: last win 2:1, and only one defeat in the last six matches against the Gunners 📊.
⚽ For betting: with injuries in Arsenal’s defense and City’s fresh attack, it’s worth considering an above-average goal total and individual bets on Marmoush or Foden.
