Arsenal vs Manchester City: Pre-match report
With new coach Unai Emery at the helm of things, Arsenal will start off their Premier League campaign by hosting Manchester City, the defending champions. Guardiola's City will want to continue their successful run of last season and perform as spectacularly as they did earlier. Emery, however, has a lot to prove, stepping into the shoes of the great Wenger. Here's our match preview.
Players who might not feature in the starting XI
Most of the Arsenal players were not involved much in the World Cup, and thus they can field most of their regulars. Ramsay, whose contract ends after this season, suffered a calf injury and looks doubtful for this high octane encounter. Injuries will also keep away Koscielny and Kolašinac. De Bruyne, Otamendi and Kompany will play as subs while injury keeps Mendy out.
Possible formation for Arsenal
With Cech at the goal, Emery might field a 4-3-3 formation, the same he used to do at Paris Saint-Germain. Papastathopoulos will make his debut along with Mustafi, Bellerin, and Maitland-Niles. The debutant, Lucas, can play as the central defensive mid-fielder as Ramsay and Xhaka feature as mid-fielders. Mkhitaryan and Ozil will support center-forward Aubameyang from the two wings.
Which formation would City use?
Guardiola's men might use a 4-5-1 formation, with Mendy, Laporte, Stones and Walker taking up the defensive duties. The mid-field can be comprised of Sane, Fernandinho, Gundogan, and the most expensive African player ever, Riyad Mahrez. Mahrez made a move from Leicester this season and might make his debut tonight. Sergio Aguero will take to the field as City's striker.
Comments from the two managers
Emery says, "After two years with Guardiola, they have more stability and security. When you watch their matches, they play with great confidence in themselves". Guardiola was quoted saying, "He is an excellent manager. What he achieved - three Europa Leagues in a row- is excellent. He is a good manager and it is good for the Premier League.
Where should you tune in for the action?
The tie between Arsenal and City kicks off on Sunday at 8:30 PM IST. It will be telecast live on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select HD. You can also stream it on Hotstar.
