Arsenal vs Manchester City – Combined XI ahead of huge clash | OneFootball

Arsenal face Manchester City in the Premier League this afternoon in a crucial clash for both teams.

The two teams have tussled for the title across the last two campaigns and their competition for honours has increased a blossoming rivalry. It’s a contest between two of the top teams in English football with star talent on both sides.

Ahead of their clash at the Emirates, we’ve picked our Arsenal and Manchester City Combined XI:

Goalkeeper: David Raya – Arsenal

After last season’s Golden Glove success, David Raya has been exceptional again for Arsenal. The Spaniard’s distribution is excellent and his reactions lightning quick. Ederson remains the benchmark for ball-playing goalkeepers but, like many of his teammates, has seen his form questioned on occasion this season. At a time when several top teams are questioning their goalkeeper, Arsenal have no such issue.

Right-back: Jurrien Timber – Arsenal

Quietly consistent all season, not enough has been said about Jurrien Timber’s bounce back this season. Adapting to a new division is tough for any import, but on the back of an ACL injury that decimated your first campaign entirely, it’s even tougher. Timber has made it look easy and his adaptability is key for Arsenal.

Centre-back: William Saliba – Arsenal

Arguably the best young centre-back in world football, the duel between Erling Haaland and Arsenal duo Saliba and Gabriel will help determine Sunday’s showdown. Saliba has the speed to match any opponent, reads the game like a veteran, and plays with unerring composure.

Centre-back: Gabriel – Arsenal

Saliba’s centre-back partner, the defensive duo have been the bedrock of Arsenal’s improvement over the last two campaigns. Gabriel defends his penalty box with determination, is unafraid to ruffle feathers, and is a menacing threat at set pieces.

Left-back: Josko Gvardiol – Manchester City

Manchester City break up Arsenal’s dominance in defence at left-back. Josko Gvardiol has largely been a shining light in an otherwise troubled campaign for the Citizens. The Croatian marauds forward with intent and has already scored five goals in 22 league appearances this season. Still just 23, he has huge potential.

Midfield: Declan Rice – Arsenal

Declan Rice’s arrival helped turn Arsenal into one of the Premier League’s most powerful units, with the England international living up to his record price tag last season. He’s not quite been as all-encompassing as his debut campaign this time around, but the 26-year-old could have a big say on Sunday’s fixture. His midfield presence and athleticism is something City sorely lack.

Midfield: Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City

Kevin De Bruyne has not been at his best in what could be his final season in a City shirt. That said, he remains a difference-maker when called upon. Four assists in his last three league starts highlight his ability to create chances. He boasts a brilliant record against Arsenal, with eight goals and four assists in 15 league games against the Gunners.

Midfield: Martin Odegaard – Arsenal

Arsenal’s own manufacturer of goalscoring opportunities. Martin Odegaard leads by example for Arsenal with his willingness to get on the ball and make things happen. Across Europe’s top five leagues, he ranks in the top five percent of midfielders for assists, expected assists, progressive carries and progressive passes per 90 minutes.

Right-wing: Phil Foden – Manchester City

Phil Foden has found form for Manchester City after a slow start to the season. The reigning PFA Player of the Year had underwhelmed until recent weeks but has burst into life with six goals in his last four Premier League appearances.

A fabulous footballer to watch when at his best level.

Left-wing: Omar Marmoush – Manchester City

Omar Marmoush made a big impression on his Manchester City debut last weekend and earns inclusion here over the inconsistent Gabriel Martinelli and teammate Savinho.

The Egyptian became one of Europe’s most coveted players over the first half of the season, after scoring 20 goals and providing 14 assists in 26 appearances for Eintracht Frankfurt. A lively first outing in a City shirt hints he’ll be able to hit the ground running in English football.

Forward: Erling Haaland – Manchester City

Mikel Arteta will be casting envious glances in the direction of the opposition this weekend. Arsenal’s hunt for a striker has proven futile so far, while City have locked down the greatest goalscorer in Europe on a nine-and-a-half year deal. With an astonishing 114 goals in 130 appearances for the Blues, it’s obvious where their threat lies.

Read – Arsenal boss Arteta tight-lipped on Ollie Watkins pursuit

See more – The fastest goals ever scored in the Premier League as Doucoure makes history

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