Pre-Match Commentary

Arsenal sit top of the table with 70 points, six clear of Manchester City, but Pep's side have won four of their last five matches and aren't going away quietly. City's home record is formidable: 11 wins from 15, with only one defeat at the Etihad this season. Arsenal's away form is solid though, nine wins from 16 on the road, and they've picked up momentum with four consecutive league wins.

The head-to-head tells an interesting story. Their last five meetings have swung wildly between them: Arsenal demolished City 5-1 earlier this season, but City won the League Cup meeting 2-0 more recently. Both teams have conceded just four goals in their last five matches, suggesting defensive solidity from both camps.

This is essentially a two-horse race now. With 35 and 38 games played respectively, every point matters massively. City's form at home combined with Arsenal's away resilience makes this a genuinely competitive encounter.