Gary Neville makes astonishing Arsenal vs Man City prediction

Gary Neville has backed Arsenal to record an emphatic win over Manchester City in Sunday’s huge Premier League clash.

While Pep Guardiola’s hold on the title has gone following a disastrous run between October and December, the Gunners still retain hope of overhauling Liverpool.

There is, however, little margin for error for Mikel Arteta’s men who have struggled to keep pace with Arne Slot’s relentless winning machine.

Having so far failed to reinforce his attack over the course of the transfer window, Arteta remains heavily reliant on Kai Havertz, although Ethan Nwaneri’s return to fitness represents a welcome boost.

While hopes of a fifth Premier League crown in a row have gone for City, Champions League qualification remains a distinct possibility.

Last weekend’s comeback win over Chelsea served as a timely reminder of their quality and a raft of January reinforcements, including the likes of Omar Marmoush, who gave an eye-catching performance on debut, certain to boost their top four hopes.

Neville, however, believes Arsenal will boast too much power and energy, particualrly in midfield, and will overwhelm the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Mateo Kovacic who have struggled to fill the void left by the season ending injury Rodri suffered in the reverse fixture back in September.

‘I’m going to go Arsenal 3-0. I thought City were there for the taking last Saturday against Chelsea,’ said Neville.

‘I was really disappointed with Chelsea. I just think Arsenal will have too much intensity and I think it’ll be one of those games where if they get a goal they’ll just go away from City.’

Fellow pundit Jamie Carragher also felt Arsenal would prevail but felt the result in Saturday’s game between Liverpool and Bournemouth could have an influence on the atmosphere.

The Reds’ win on the south coast against the in-form Cherries will put a different complexion on matters in north London with Arsenal nine points adrift.

‘I think a lot rides on how Liverpool get on the day before,’ said Carragher, speaking before Liverpool’s game kicked off.

‘I think it could affect the atmosphere in the stadium. If Liverpool have dropped points there will be a feel-good factor and I’d see Arsenal go on and win the game.

‘If Liverpool win it could be a situation where there’s a nervousness in the crowd.

‘I think Arsenal are a lot better than Manchester City this season. What Arsenal have got to do is make it a fast, energectic game.

‘I think Arsenal have got a little bit too much power in midfield for City right now and I could see them winning 2-1.’