Manchester City v Arsenal: Rival fans’ view

The Premier League is set for a seismic showdown this weekend as Manchester City and Arsenal collide at the Etihad Stadium.

The two teams, considered frontrunners for the title, will lock horns in a match that promises to be an epic battle of wits and skill.

To get a sense of the anticipation and excitement surrounding this match, Showmax spoke to a die-hard fan of each team. Their insights into the rivalry, the strengths and weaknesses of their respective clubs, and their predictions for the outcome, offer a fascinating glimpse into the passionate world of football.

Catch the epic clash between Manchester City and Arsenal live on Showmax Premier League, on Sunday, 22 September at 17:30.

Arsenal fan Sameer Seetaram, chairman of the official Arsenal Supporters’ Club in South Africa

Prediction: Manchester City 1-2 Arsenal

Arsenal travels to the Etihad on Sunday, to face undoubtedly the toughest team in the league. How are you feeling ahead of the clash?

I’m always confident before every Arsenal match. It’s not going to be a walk in the park, but we’re The Arsenal. We’ve got the fire, the flair and the experience to show City who we really are!

Is City the only team standing in your team’s way of winning the title this season ?

City is like the final boss, but there are mini bosses lurking around too (just ask Liverpool after last weekend) but I think this season may be different. If we do all we need to do, focus on each match game by game, it’s Arsenal’s for the taking!

What have you made of Arsenal’s start this season?

Could it we be a bit smoother? Sure. But we’re picking up points, bedding in new players, and haven’t even hit full gear yet. The best is yet to come, but I’m loving the football so far.

Happy with the business you guys have done in the transfer window?

All I can say is – “in Arteta we trust”! Sure, we all felt we needed a proper striker, but the goals keep coming from all over the pitch, and the type of football we are playing doesn’t necessarily need an out-and-out striker. I’m happy with the club’s transfer business! I feel Sterling is a fire that’s ready to explode!

What will it take to beat City at the Etihad?

A bit of magic, a bit of luck, and a whole lot of Gabriel Jesus’ dancing feet. We’ve got the squad to pull it off. It’s about pressing them relentlessly, and if we nick an early goal, it’s over for them!

Last season, Arsenal were accused of sitting back and happily settling for a draw at the Etihad. Do you expect them to go after City this weekend ?

Context is everything – In the famous words of Arsene Wenger, “if you can’t win it, don’t lose it!” It was about the context of the game and where we were in the season. But this Arsenal is built different now, we are built to win!

Do you believe Arsenal can win the title this season?

You bet I do! We’re more experienced, stronger and wiser. With the squad that we have I believe we are real contenders this time!

Do you think your injuries (ie: Ødegaard) will affect your team greatly ?

We’ll miss Ødegaard’s wizardry, but we’ve got other magicians in the team ready to take the wand.

Is Mikel Arteta the best manager in the league after Pep Guardiola?

Arteta is right up there and the scary part is, he is only getting better! The student is about to become the master!

Manchester City fan Xolani Dube

Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Arsenal

Arsenal travels to the Etihad on Sunday, to face undoubtedly the toughest team in the league. How are you feeling ahead of the clash ?

I feel excited. I mean, beating them so early in the season would make for a great start.

Is Arsenal the only team standing in your team’s way of winning the title this season?

No, I doubt it. Smaller teams fighting relegation are the ones to look out for. Also, there’s Arne Slot’s Liverpool. We know how hard they are to beat at their home ground.

What have you made of City’s start this season?

Perfect start! Couldn’t have asked for anything better. I hope we go for the longest unbeaten streak.

Happy with the business you guys have done in the transfer window?

⁠It wasn’t bad nor good. Sad that Alvarez had to go but really impressed with Savinho so far! Riyad Mahrez reincarnated!

What will it take to beat Arsenal this weekend ?

Bury our first chances, quickly stop their counter attacks and not give up the ball in dangerous spaces.

Do you believe City can once again win the title this year?

⁠I mean, there’s nothing that’s to be stopping us right now, so why not? Yeah! We can do it.

Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for R69 p/m at www.showmax.com for all the Premier League action.