“I think that would be my concern” - Rio Ferdinand outlines key challenge Arsenal face ahead of Manchester City blockbuster clash
Rio Ferdinand believes Arsenal's lack of attacking threat will be a concern for them going into their big Premier League clash against Manchester City. The two title challengers will face off at the Etihad on Sunday, September 22.
The Gunners competed with City for the title in the last two seasons but fell short by five and two points respectively. The Cityzens have won all of their league games so far while the north London side have won three and drawn one. The two sides will face off at the Etihad in a huge clash in the context of the title race.
Ahead of the game, Rio Ferdinand has outlined his concern regarding Arsenal's attack. After the Gunners' goalless draw against Atalanta away in the UEFA Champions League on September 19, Ferdinand said (via Metro):
"I think that would be my concern at the weekend, I think the creativity, it’s something you look at today, the manager said it in his post-game comments, bit sloppy, ball retention wasn’t where it wanted to be. And that will have to improve, they’ll have to be more clinical and decisive when they get that one or two opportunities.
"Let’s face it, City aren’t going to give them five or six opportunities, I’ll be surprised if they get that. Today, Martinelli had a really good chance and he wasn’t composed enough. They are areas where they’ll have to clean up their act if they’re going to get anything against Man City."
Arsenal have scored six goals in four Premier League games so far this season while Manchester City have scored 11.
Arsenal star William Saliba on importance of beating Manchester City
The Cityzens have won a record four Premier League titles in a row, beating the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal in the process. Hence, beating them is seen as the obvious challenge and could give a side a big boost in their title aspirations.
Arsenal defender William Saliba has, however, claimed that it won't be the end of the world if they don't beat Manchester City on Sunday. He said (via Goal):
"If you win against them but not against others it doesn't mean anything. So, of course, we want to win this weekend and we will give everything to win but it’s not the end on Sunday."
The Gunners beat Manchester City at the Emirates last season and played out a goalless draw at the Etihad. However, they still fell short by two points on the final day.