3 Key battles that will determine if Arsenal lose or win against Manchester City

Two weeks of international break have left the Premier League fans thirsty for some action and the games on weekend could not come at a better time. The upcoming clash between Arsenal and Manchester City at Emirates on Sunday is the most anticipated of the weekend fixtures as the game would determine who stays in the top four.

The Gunners are in a very bad shape and will hope the two weeks break will help to regain their lost form. Man City has been on top of their game as of late and they will not be an easy opponent. All hope of a top-four finish would be lost if arsenal should give room to be defeated. So every should give all its going to take to keep their team at the top. Here are three battles Arsenal needs to win to conquer Man City:

Shkodran Mustafi vs Sergio Aguero:

The German defender was not present for the reverse fixture in December and this would be the first time he will be coming against the Argentine striker in the Premier League. Despite being an home game, Mustafi will find himself in a bind attacking one of the World best striker. He is partnered with Laurent Koscielny who has been outstanding this season so Aguero will unexpectedly take advantage of Mustafi’s inexperience. If Mustafi fails to restrain Aguero, Arsenal might be on the losing end.

Raheem Sterling vs Nacho Monreal:

The English midfielder have performed excellent this season and is a part of Pep Guardiloa starting eleven at Etihad. He will be taking on Arsenal’s left-back Nacho Monreal from the right flank. The Spanish is firm in his position but lacks the speed to match that of Sterling and his flaws will be brought out in the open. This would not be the first time the duo will come against one another and their clash is one to look forward to and see if Monreal will be able to vanquish Sterling.

Aaron Ramsey vs Fernandinho:

With Granit Xhaka inconsistency and Santi Carzorla unfit, Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who is gaining fame on the international front will be partnering Francis Coquelin in the midfield for this fixture and he will be heavily relied on for attack and defense. Coquelin will be acting as a cover for the back-4 dropping all the midfield duties on Ramsey’s shoulder. He will be facing Manchester City’s Fernandinho head on. The Brazillian have been in good form this season and Ramsey will have to up his game and prevent Fernandinho from overpowering him.