This weekend, Arsenal will return to Wembley for a League Cup final for the first time in seven years, so let’s look at how things have changed in that time for the two finalists.
3Role reversal
The next year, Arsenal looked even less likely to win a trophy, whilst City ended their wait for a Premier League title.
In all, the Manchester club have won two league titles, one FA Cup, and two League Cups since that day in 2011. They’re easily top of the league this year, comfortable in their Champions League tie, and the favourites for the League Cup.
Arsenal have won three FA Cups, which is no mean feat, but they haven’t come close to a league title.
The only season they even finished in 2nd was in 2015/16, when they took Spurs’ place on the final day.
Now they’re sixth, and playing Europa League football, facing teams like Östersund whilst City challenge for Champions League glory.
It’s almost the complete reverse of seven years ago.
All Arsenal can hope for now is that this weekend’s final is a similar turning point. They won’t win the league this season, just as City failed to do in 2011, but there’s still time to get things back on track for next year.
That could start with a confidence building win on Sunday. Let’s hope they get it.