The world has changed - Arsenal shut down ‘the best in the world

Arsenal held Manchester City to a goalless draw on Sunday to maintain their one-point advantage over the titleholders. 

They limited City to their joint smallest traces in the opposition penalty area( four) in the first half at the Etihad Stadium since their director Pep Guardiola came to the Premier League in the summer of 2016. Centre-tails William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes were Arsenal’s bouncers at the edge of their 18-yard box — “ Sorry, Erling. Your name’s not on the list, you’re not coming by. ”

Two Premier League clean wastes against City in this season’s two league meetings are a source of pride for director Mikel Arteta. “ It’s extremely delicate to do that, ” he said at his post-match press conference.

Playing City down from home is a unique challenge. No bone differently in the Premier League has forced Arsenal to play so compact and so deep. Arteta suggested their low block was part of a plan, but also a commodity of ineluctability.

When they( City) attack good, they get you in this low block and it’s really hard to get out of that, ” said the Arsenal director. They can bring a full-reverse outside, or a center-reverse inside. However, eight players outside and leave Haaland one-on-one, it’s your choice If you want to follow those even. However, great, If you want. However, also you know what's passing The line is really thin with them, If you don’t. ”

It’s a line Arsenal trod precisely in eastern Manchester history. To defend so well, for so long, is a testament to their powers of attention. “ Clarity, ” summarised Arteta. And also after recovering the ball, lose it and follow another 30 passes? Yes? If so, also you're ready to play Manchester City. It’s that important. However, also you can not play them If you’re not ready to do that. ”