The midfield battle could prove decisive in Manchester City’s clash with Arsenal

Today’s match between Manchester City and Arsenal will feature crucial contests all over the pitch. The meeting between the two title rivals is full of intriguing match ups and key battles that will go a long way to deciding the game. But the midfield battle may prove to be the most decisive factor in today’s critical Premier League encounter.

Both teams have quality throughout their midfield. For Manchester City, they are led in the centre of the pitch by Rodri. City’s midfield general has become one of the best players in world football under Pep Guardiola. For Mikel Arteta’s side, the summer arrival of Declan Rice has added more steel to their lineup. The match-up between the two will likely go a long way in settling today’s game.

READ MORE: Esteemed Kompany host Steven Mcinerney previews today’s critical match between Manchester City and Arsenal.

Who supports Rodri and Declan Rice could also prove decisive in the outcome of the midfield battle. Manchester City look a better team when their midfield general has support in midfield. Mateo Kovacic showed his importance and calming influence in City’s 1-all draw against Liverpool at Anfield before the international break. City’s midfield lacked control for large portions of that particular game. It was the introduction of Kovacic that settled City in a hostile environment. The pair also dominated the midfield during City’s 2-nil FA Cup quarter-final win over Newcastle. With that in mind, it would be expected that Kovacic and Rodri should resume their promising midfield partnership at the Etihad today.

For Arsenal Declan Rice is often paired with Jorginho. Their midfield duo form a solid foundation for the Gunners. Their hard work allows a potent Arsenal attack to flourish. Rice has shown why he was so highly sought after in the summer since his arrival at Arsenal. The match-up between Rice and Jorginho against Rodri and possibly Kovacic could go a long way in deciding today’s game.

The midfield battle is almost the key battle of today’s massive game. Whoever comes out on top in midfield could go a long way in picking up a massive three points for their team at the Etihad later this afternoon.