Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City had all of the build-up of a heavyweight clash as the two teams look set to face off for the Premier League title once again.
The Gunners finished just two points behind their rivals last season, with the draw away at the Etihad Stadium one of the deciding factors.
Mikel Arteta and his side went to Manchester in hopes of gaining three points instead of just one, which would swing the title race in Arsenal’s favour.
While many expected a slow and cagey match, it started in a bruising fashion that matched the heavyweight billing.
Kai Havertz steams into Rodri early in Man City vs Arsenal
The match between Man City and Arsenal kickstarted but only seconds later it was called to a halt by Michael Oliver.
Kai Havertz looked to press the opposition straight from kick-off, with Rodri looking to block him from making any immediate progress.
The forward appeared to collide with the Spanish midfielder, sending him to the ground and requiring medical attention immediately.
Pep Guardiola wasn’t particularly impressed, with VAR checking the incident, but ultimately deciding against a red card – citing it as a “body-to-body decision”.
It created a feisty start to the match, with Erling Haaland flying into a challenge on William Saliba just seconds later.
That may have come as a surprise to most, with the match usually being rather cagey in comparison.
- READ MORE: The moment Pep Guardiola realised Mikel Arteta was Arsenal through and through at Man City
Arsenal went bold with Man City tactics
Early on in the clash with Man City, Arsenal seemingly went bold with an aggressive tactical decision to press the opposition in particular moments.
There was still an element of defending deep and trading blows with City, but the moment involving Havertz and Rodri early on summed up the opening stages between the two teams.
While the Gunners may be accused by some of being defensive in the encounter last season, which cost them points in the title race, they can’t be accused of doing the same early on.
Whether that will prove to be a good or bad decision will depend on the outcome of the match and perhaps the title race as a whole.
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