Paul Merson has had his say on Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Chelsea at the Emirates.
The Gunners play on Sunday, a day after title rivals Manchester City take on Leeds United at Elland Road in what will be a tricky game.
Merson has boldly predicted that Pep Guardiola’s side will drop points against the Whites, which would give a huge boost to Arsenal.
Speaking about the Premier League leaders, the pundit has backed them to pick up all three points.
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Paul Merson says Arsenal will beat Chelsea but Man City will draw vs Leeds
Arsenal have had the upper hand in games against Chelsea in recent years.
The Gunners haven’t lost to the Blues in their last 10 fixtures in all competitions, winning seven and drawing three with an aggregate score of 22-9.
That makes Mikel Arteta’s side the favourites again to win the London derby on Sunday, and Merson has backed a narrow win for his old side.
However, before that, the pundit predicted a 1-1 draw between Manchester City and Leeds United in their game on Saturday.
Speaking about Arsenal, Merson told Sportskeeda: “Barring the Manchester United game, Arsenal are still unbeaten at home.
“But this is still a tough game for them because they have to come out and win this. They didn’t have to do that in the second leg of the cup game at the Emirates!
“If Leeds beat City, Arsenal have a free hit here. Otherwise, they must not lose. I believe they will just edge Chelsea and secure three points.”
Merson’s prediction: Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea
Fill the blanks: On Sunday, the score will be Arsenal _ Chelsea _.
Arsenal must expect a different Chelsea at the Emirates
Arsenal have already faced Chelsea three times this season, and Arteta’s side have won two of those fixtures.
The last game between the two sides was the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, during which the Blues offered next to nothing for large parts.
Liam Rosenior’s game plan on the night was to stay in the game for as long as possible and nick a goal in the end. Unfortunately for him, the late goal was scored by Kai Havertz for Arsenal.
On Sunday, Arsenal must expect a different Chelsea, as it is very unlikely that the Blues will just sit back and play the waiting game.
They are expected to come out to try to win the game, which should suit the Gunners as there will be a lot of space to exploit.
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