It is difficult to predict the outcome of a game where an irresistable force comes up against an immovable object. Arsenal have been the thrusting force of the Premier League this season, while Manchester City have swatted aside opponents at the Etihad Stadium. In fact, City recorded a combined 10-1 score in games against Manchester United and Tottenham. They beat United 4-1, while thrashing Tottenham 6-0 a couple of months later. It is going to take something special for Arsenal to get anything from this game.
Game Odds:
Bookmakers have a similar thinking to the pundits for this game. Arsenal might be the runaway league leaders, but few are giving them too much of a chance in this game. City are priced at 10/11 to get the win, while the draw is all the way out at 12/5. Arsenal are priced at 11/4. Despite those odds, betting on a draw or an Arsenal win is probably the smart bet. The league leaders are in great form, and they went to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and got a huge win. If they can channel that spirit into this game, they could cause an upset in Manchester.
A detailed look at the odds for the game can be found here.
Stand out Performers:
This season has been all about the strikers for Manchester City. While David Silva and Yaya Toure are still top players, they have played second fiddle at City to Sergio Aguero and Alvaro Negredo. The two strikers have been in incredible form, and have scored goals for fun against almost every team that has come to Manchester. The only side that emerged with anything from City’s home stadium this season are Bayern Munich, and they are probably Europe’s best team.
For Arsenal, it has been all about Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil. The two midfielders have been sensational this season. Ozil’s transfer was a huge lift for Arsenal, but it is the standout form of Ramsey that has allowed them to sit atop the Premier League. This passing and creativity has been first class, but he has also added important goals to his game. Their team stats highlight that the two midfielders, along with Olivier Giroud, have been the club’s best statistical performers.
Expect this to be a great contest, and a cheeky bet on Arsenal to win could well be the one that gets you betting success.
