Clash of Titan! Mikel Arteta won't ever have a better opportunity to sink injury-hit Man City

The manager of Arsenal shouldn't be compared to Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp if he doesn't succeed.

On Sunday, Arsenal have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the title race, especially considering the reigning champions are currently grappling with an injury crisis.

Arsenal's recent form has been exceptional, having won all of their last eight matches, scoring an impressive 33 goals and conceding only four in the process. Under Mikel Arteta's management, they have emerged as the most dominant team in the Premier League in terms of current form.

Therefore, when Arsenal face Manchester City on Sunday, they will do so with a renewed sense of confidence as they strive to capture their first top-flight title since 2004. This is in stark contrast to their previous encounter at the Etihad Stadium, where Arsenal suffered a demoralizing 4-1 defeat to Pep Guardiola's team last season, following a series of three successive draws. That defeat dealt a psychological blow to Arsenal from which they struggled to recover.

City's experience and depth ultimately proved decisive as they clinched their fifth title under Guardiola. However, Arsenal has shown resilience and determination, currently leading the table as they approach the crucial stages of the campaign. Liverpool closely follows them in second place on goal difference, with City just one point behind in third.

The stakes are incredibly high, and this time, Arteta won't have any legitimate justifications if Arsenal fail to perform, particularly following a disruptive international break that has notably weakened the reigning champions.

Pep's worst fears realised

Guardiola expressed his intention not to watch the international games, hoping for the best regarding his players' fitness upon their return. However, his concerns materialized as Kyle Walker sustained a hamstring injury during England's match against Brazil, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming Arsenal game.

John Stones also faced a setback, as he was forced off the field during England's game against Belgium due to an adductor issue. This adds to Stones' previous fitness struggles this season, raising uncertainty about his availability for Sunday's match.

City's worries extend to Manuel Akanji, who withdrew from the Switzerland squad due to an injury. Akanji's consistent performances in defense and versatility have been crucial for Guardiola's team, making his potential absence a significant blow.

With Ederson also dealing with a thigh issue and other players such as Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish unable to participate in international duties, Guardiola faces a dilemma in team selection. Additionally, Matheus Nunes is nursing a foot injury, potentially leaving City short-handed for their crucial upcoming fixture.

Mental barrier at the Etihad?

Arsenal also face their own fitness concerns, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes leaving their national teams early due to minor issues. However, both players are expected to feature against City, along with Gabriel Martinelli, who has had sufficient time to recover from a foot injury sustained in a previous match.

The Gunners have been in impressive goal-scoring form, netting 17 goals in their last three away games, and will be looking to capitalize on City's depleted squad. Despite a 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium earlier in the season, the memory of their previous defeat at the Etihad may still linger in the players' minds.

Arsenal's recent record at the Etihad has been poor, with their last win dating back to January 2015. They have suffered seven losses and managed only one draw in their last eight trips to Manchester. The home crowd is likely to intensify pressure on Arsenal, with taunts about their title aspirations, and Arteta's team will need to remain focused and execute their game plan effectively to avoid another challenging afternoon.