Paul Merson outlines key ‘difference’ between Arsenal and Man City, it could cost Mikel Arteta the title

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Arsenal are aiming to go one step further in the title race with Manchester City this season, but they still face a tough challenge ahead.

Mikel Arteta’s team secured an impressive draw at the Etihad Stadium when they faced City last week, despite going down to 10 men after Leandro Trossard was sent off.

However, despite the result, Arsenal have been criticised for the defensive nature of their performance, but this criticism is unlikely to make Arteta change his approach.

The fallout from the 2-2 draw has also seen City handed a huge blow as crucial midfielder Rodri has been ruled out for the season.

His absence could give Arsenal an advantage, given how important the Spaniard is for Pep Guardiola’s midfield, but Paul Merson does not believe this makes Arsenal favourites for the title.

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Paul Merson compares Arsenal and Manchester City’s squad depth

Merson has told Sportskeeda that despite Rodri’s injury, Man City’s superior squad depth still makes them favourites to lift the Premier League this season.

“I still don’t believe Arsenal are favourites for the title now after the injury to Rodri. You look at the substitutes that Manchester City have, and look at the size of that squad compared to Arsenal, who were bringing on Gabriel Jesus, who City actually let go, there is certainly a difference,” he claimed.

“If Arsenal had to take one player out of the City team to help them win the title, that would be Rodri – no doubt! So he’s definitely a big miss, but City may still have enough in them to go all the way.”

Arsenal’s squad depth has improved

Arsenal addressed their depth issue in the summer by signing Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino and Raheem Sterling, who all provide extra quality and cover across the pitch.

In addition to this, Jurrien Timber has returned from injury, and youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly are set for first-team roles, with the pair recently making their first-team debuts.

Arsenal found a way to stay unbeaten without captain Martin Odegaard, and this is a testament to the quality of their squad that they are able to compete whilst suffering from several injuries which could have derailed their progress before.