3 reasons why Arteta's Arsenal will end Manchester City's Etihad hegemony

With Arsenal sitting just a point above Manchester City in the table and the potential for an enthralling title race, this weekend's clash at the Etihad promises to be a crucial match.

Ahead of that potential explosive clash, here are three reasons that point to a potential Arsenal victory that could further cement their status as genuine title contenders.

The Gunners have been on a remarkable run, winning their last eight Premier League matches by an aggregate score of 33-4.

This kind of form is usually indicative of title-winning seasons, with Arsenal achieving nine or more consecutive wins in only three previous campaigns - all of which resulted in league titles.

The Gunners' current momentum and confidence will be a significant advantage as they take on the reigning champions.

Despite their overall dominance in the league, Manchester City have struggled against the top teams this season.

Pep Guardiola’s men have failed to beat any of the teams currently in the top five, losing to Arsenal and Aston Villa, and drawing with Liverpool and Tottenham.

This trend of underperforming against the best oppositions could play into Arsenal's hands, as Mikel Arteta’s Gunners look to assert their title credentials.

In their recent high-profile fixtures, Manchester City have shown a concerning trend of struggling in the second half.

Against Liverpool before the international break, City were outshot 12-3 and had an Expected Goals figure of just 2.14 after the break according to the Premier League, managing only one second-half goal.

This vulnerability in the latter stages of matches could be exploited by a rampaging Arsenal side that has shown the ability to grind out results and see out games.