As Arsenal prepare to host Manchester City at the Emirates this Sunday, Premier League pundit and Manchester United legend Gary Neville has emphasized the importance of the clash, calling it a “must-win” for the Gunners if they want to stay in the thick of the title race. With City looking to reassert themselves after a shaky start, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Arsenal Face High-Stakes Showdown Against Manchester City
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side have begun the Premier League season in solid form, securing three wins from four outings and only dropping points in a loss to title holders Liverpool. In contrast, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have shown early signs of vulnerability, winning just two of their opening four matches.
Despite City’s dominance in recent seasons—claiming the title four years in a row prior to last season’s third-place finish—the reigning champions Liverpool and a resurgent Arsenal have overtaken them in early title predictions.
That dynamic sets the stage for a massive encounter at the Emirates, with City aiming to send a statement and Arsenal under pressure to keep pace with the leaders.
Neville: Arsenal “Have to Win” to Stay in the Race
Speaking on his podcast via Sky Sports, Gary Neville didn’t mince words when outlining the importance of the upcoming fixture. From the former defender’s perspective, Arsenal cannot afford to drop points.
“If I’m looking at that from an Arsenal perspective, I’m thinking it’s a game I’ve got to win,” Neville said. “I think Arsenal are a better all-round team right now, but City still have the kind of players that can hurt you.”
Neville pointed out that the likes of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and Jeremy Doku all possess the individual brilliance to turn the game in City’s favor, even if the team as a whole hasn’t hit top gear yet.
Balancing Defense and Ambition Will Be Key for Gunners
Neville praised Arsenal’s ability to manage big-game pressure in recent seasons, highlighting the team’s tactical flexibility and growing maturity under Arteta. However, he stressed that Arsenal must strike the right balance between cautious defense and decisive attacking play.
“They’ve got to have that mentality of winning the match,” he said. “That starts with the manager’s selection and carries through to the players’ mindset on the pitch. You’ve got to go for it when the opportunity presents itself.”
In short, Arsenal must not only contain City’s dangerous forwards but also seize their own moments to dictate the result—especially at home.
City Can Shake Up the Title Race With a Statement Win
From Manchester City’s perspective, the match is a golden opportunity to reignite their title ambitions. A win at the Emirates would not only lift them back into the spotlight but also send a strong message to Liverpool, Arsenal, and the rest of the league.
“Go and win at the Emirates next Sunday, because that will sort of shake things up and rock things a little bit,” Neville urged.
City might enter the match as underdogs based on early-season form, but their talent and experience still make them a dangerous contender. A victory in North London could be the turning point they’ve been waiting for.
With Liverpool leading the early title charge, Sunday’s Arsenal vs. Manchester City clash could have lasting implications. For Arsenal, it’s a chance to prove they’re legitimate title challengers. For City, it’s a chance to remind everyone they’re not done yet. One way or another, the Premier League picture is about to get a lot clearer.
