Arsenal vs Manchester City
Premier League
Wednesday
15th February 2023
Emirates Stadium
Preview
On Wednesday evening, in addition to two games in the Champions League, there is also a cracker in the Premier League to keep an eye on. Manchester City will visit league leaders Arsenal. At stake: the lead in the English league. City manager Pep Guardiola discussed the game at a press conference.
Of course the Spaniard was full of nice words for the team of his opponent, compatriot, ex-colleague and football friend Mikel Arteta. They are the best team in the Premier League so far. We noticed that a few weeks ago. Their involvement, they are sharp,” said Guardiola, referring to the mutual cup match at the end of January.
“I don’t think we were out of shape a week ago and are in shape now. Every game is different, but tomorrow is an important one. We will do our best, but there are still a lot of difficult games ahead. In any case, it will be important that we prove ourselves, that we handle the many aspects well,” said Guardiola, who added: “This is the best Arsenal I’ve seen since I’ve been working in England.”
A big question mark hangs around the playing of top scorer Erling Haaland. Guardiola could not, or would not, clarify that. “We’re going to train this afternoon, then we’ll see,” he said. The Norwegian striker was substituted against Aston Villa at half-time on Sunday.
Arteta loses his cool on VAR’s decision
Furthermore, Brentford striker Ivan Toney’s equalizer was wrongly approved: Christian Norgaard was offside in the run-up to that 1-1. Mason forgot to draw the lines behind the VAR screen, so the goal stood. Arteta spoke about it in the press conference prior to the cracker against pursuers Manchester City, which has the chance to pass the Londoners in the ranking due to that blunder.
“We were very angry after that game, because it is not a human error. Here someone did not understand his function, and that is not acceptable. That costs us two points. We do appreciate that apologies and an explanation have come. Now we have to go on. It makes the players, the staff and our fans stronger that they had to get over this hurdle. But I won’t be satisfied until they give me those two points back, and that’s not going to happen,” he said.
Referee boss Howard Webb apologized to Arsenal. Mason’s inattention also had consequences, the experienced referee has not been selected as VAR for next weekend. Finally, Arteta appeals to the supporters: “I want us to play with fifteen men tomorrow, that the supporters give us energy and support.”
Arsenal vs Manchester City: Odds
Double chance: Arsenal @ 1.68 odds.
Under 2.75 goals @ 1.81 odds.
