Arsenal face Manchester City in a crucial top-of-the-table clash on Sunday and you can see our detailed Match Predictions article. Ahead of this Super Sunday fixture, our experts have also prepared a 20/1 Ultimate Bet Builder with five selections which is available with BetVictor.
Under 2.5 Goals
A low-scoring affair is likely between Manchester City and Arsenal, given their recent form and defensive solidity. Both teams have shown strong defensive capabilities in their opening fixtures. City have conceded only three times in their first four Premier League games, illustrating their ability to stifle opposition attacks. Their dominance in possession, averaging 62.3%, further reduces their opponents’ chances of creating clear opportunities.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have been equally impressive at the back, allowing just one goal in their opening fixtures. With defenders like William Saliba and Gabriel forming a formidable partnership, Arsenal’s defensive resilience is evident through their numerous interceptions and clearances. The absence of creative forces such as Kevin De Bruyne for City and Martin Odegaard for Arsenal also diminishes the likelihood of a high-scoring contest. De Bruyne’s vision and precision passing are irreplaceable, even though Phil Foden can deputise effectively. Odegaard’s absence, on the other hand, leaves a significant creative void for Arsenal, as he has been crucial in breaking down defences.
Historically, meetings between these two teams have not produced many goals, with last season’s two encounters yielding just one goal combined. Both teams have often approached these big games cautiously, especially early in the season when neither side wants to risk a defeat to a direct rival. With both teams likely to adopt a pragmatic approach once more, a match with under 2.5 goals appears to be a sensible prediction.
Back Our Manchester City vs Arsenal Ultimate Bet Builder Tip Here
Reasoning This Bet Builder combines Liverpool’s potent attack with Villa’s defensive weaknesses. Expect goals over 2.5, Salah to score, Alexander-Arnold to shoot, and a Liverpool win—ideal choices for this clash. | |
Erling Haaland to Score Anytime
Despite drawing a blank in City’s recent European outing against Inter Milan, Erling Haaland remains a potent threat in front of goal. The Norwegian has already scored nine goals in just four Premier League appearances this season, showcasing his clinical finishing. His summer break seems to have rejuvenated him, and he has been particularly prolific at the Etihad Stadium, netting five times in two home games so far.
Although Haaland did not find the net against Arsenal last season, he has demonstrated his ability to exploit their defensive weaknesses in previous encounters, scoring both home and away in the 2022/23 campaign. His physical presence and intelligent movement make him a constant threat, and with City’s tendency to dominate possession, Haaland is likely to receive ample service from his teammates. Given his current form and track record against Arsenal, he stands out as a strong candidate to find the back of the net at any point during the match.
Kai Havertz to Be Carded
Kai Havertz has a reputation for being a combative presence in midfield, and this often puts him at risk of picking up bookings. Despite not being shown a yellow card in his first four league games this season, the German international has committed eight fouls, indicating his aggressive approach. His performance against Atalanta, where he made three fouls, underscores his tendency to disrupt the opposition’s play.
Last season, Havertz was booked 11 times in the Premier League alone, and his overall tally of 14 bookings across all competitions shows a clear pattern. In high-pressure matches, where the stakes are elevated, Havertz’s propensity to make rash challenges increases. A clash against City, with the intensity and competitive nature expected, makes it highly likely that he could end up in the referee’s book. His physical style, coupled with the fast pace of the game, makes him a prime candidate to receive a caution.
Manchester City Over 5.5 Corners
Manchester City’s dominance in possession often translates into a high number of corners, as they consistently push their opponents deep into their own half. In their last three Premier League fixtures, City have won over ten corners on average, reflecting their attacking mindset and the pressure they apply on their adversaries.
Arsenal, despite their defensive discipline, have shown vulnerability in this aspect, conceding seven corners in each of their last two league matches. With City likely to have the upper hand in possession and territory, the combination of their crossing ability and Haaland’s aerial presence is expected to result in several corner kicks. Arsenal’s defenders, under constant pressure, will likely resort to clearing the ball out of play, further boosting City’s corner count. Given these factors, betting on City to win over 5.5 corners seems a logical inclusion in this Bet Builder.
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