Arsenal face a tough test against Manchester City in a crucial Premier League encounter, with former player Robert Pirès expressing concerns.

  • Arsenal lead the Premier League, but face a challenging match against Manchester City in the title race.
  • Former player Robert Pirès expresses concerns over Arsenal’s squad depth and experience compared to City’s.
  • Pirès believes Arsenal have “rediscovered their DNA” this season, but warns of the pressure during the final games.
Robert Pires
Robert Pires

As we approach the climax of the Premier League season, Arsenal and Manchester City are set to face off in a crucial encounter on Wednesday evening. Currently leading the league, the Gunners hold a five-point advantage over City, who have two games in hand.

A win for Arsenal would be a significant step towards securing the title, but former player Robert Pirès is not overly optimistic about their chances.

In an interview with the regional daily Le Parisien, Pirès highlighted the challenges Arsenal face against Pep Guardiola’s formidable side.

“What to fear from City? Unfortunately, everything! Guardiola has built a very good team, with a solid bench and many players who can make a difference as soon as they come on,” said the former Arsenal winger.

One of the main concerns for Pirès is the depth and power of City’s squad compared to Arsenal’s.

Mikel Arteta has often relied on the same 12 or 13 players, and the physical toll on a younger and less experienced team could hinder their title aspirations.

“The main difference between the two squads is that City’s is much deeper and more powerful than Arsenal’s. Physically, it’s tough. It’s a younger team, with less experience, and that’s what can be difficult when it comes to going for a title,” Pirès added.

Despite his concerns, Pirès acknowledges that Arsenal have “rediscovered their DNA” this season. However, he warns that the pressure of the final games could impact the team’s performance.

“The last two are hard: everyone keeps telling you that you are going to win, there is tension, and you become a little more nervous… It can get stuck,” Pirès concluded.

Arsenal will need to overcome these challenges and maintain their focus if they want to claim the Premier League title.

The upcoming match against Manchester City will be a test of their credentials, and it remains to be seen whether Arteta’s young side can rise to the occasion this season.