The world of football is gearing up for what is expected to be a monumental title-clinching clash between Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Gunners had been in the lead for most of the season but have now seen their lead cut back by Man City.
The match at the Etihad Stadium is expected to be the biggest game of the season and could decide the title race.
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has given a characteristically frank and confident prediction as he considers the high-stakes fixture, backing Pep Guardiola’s seasoned side to crush Arsenal’s title dreams once again.
Mikel Arteta wants to end his side’s league title drought after finishing second in the last three seasons.
Meanwhile, Guardiola is poised to secure his seventh Premier League title and cement his place in Premier League history.
Paul Scholes backs Man City to beat Arsenal
Ahead of the game, Scholes made it abundantly clear where he believes Premier League glory is heading.
Despite acknowledging Arsenal’s immense tactical growth and resilience, the former England midfielder pointed to City’s sheer “muscle memory” as the ultimate deciding factor.
Scholes insisted that while Arsenal have the natural talent to go toe-to-toe with anyone, Man City’s team is uniquely built to deal with psychological warfare.
“I think Arsenal are gone, me.” The former United midfielder spoke on the podcast ‘The Good, The Bad & The Football’
“I think all the momentum is with City. At some point you have to beat your rivals. I’ve never seen them do that, they don’t win big games.”
Manchester United legend may have a point about the Gunners
Arsenal have often pushed City to the absolute brink in recent seasons, only to stumble slightly in a tough final week.
There is no doubt that Arteta has instilled a stronger winning mentality among his squad, but the Etihad Stadium remains a formidable fortress, with visiting teams rarely dictating the terms.
The last time Arsenal won against Man City at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League was over 10 years ago, on January 18, 2015.
Under Arsene Wenger, the Gunners won 2-0 thanks to a penalty from Santi Cazorla and a second-half header from Olivier Giroud.
Arteta’s side have a point to prove and must beat Man City at the Etihad to take control of the Premier League title race.
Michael Owen explains Arsenal’s advantage over Man City in Premier League title race
