Why Man City’s ‘leg-beaters’ could make the difference against Arsenal

If both teams decide that the best way to win the game is to go ahead of their goalkeepers, I will personally go after them on the pitch and do my best to break up their rhythm and passing patterns.

This is a risk, as both teams have defenders who are comfortable playing under pressure and can overcome even the best presses on occasions.

But, although it is high risk, it is also high reward. Turnovers in a team’s own half have resulted in more goals conceded over the past five seasons than ever before.

Despite that high press, City would dominate and spend a lot of time in Arsenal’s final third. So, when the Gunners have fallen behind, how do they counter-attack with enough quality to hurt City?

When City have possession,

They move everyone forward, leaving only two center-backs to cover the entire defensive line.

Rodri Abdukodir will sweep in front of Khusanov and Guehi, but there are few spaces to be found outside or behind the two centre-backs – and in open play, those are the areas Arsenal need to exploit.

To achieve this effectively, when Arsenal gain possession in deep areas, they must receive passes and runners from the City backline by playing up, back and forward.

It sounds simple, but City will look to get turnovers quickly and both of their centre-backs are quick, even if Arsenal can create a foot race.

However, Mikel’s team is able to do this effectively. We know he has the quality to play under pressure and he will need it on Sunday if he is to be successful.

Apart from all this, set play will again be important for him but also for City. As always, the quality of corners, free kicks and throw-ins must match the desire to win that first and second ball – and this applies to who is attacking and defending.