Manchester City faces must-win against Arsenal

Manchester City faces a crucial match against Arsenal, with Pep Guardiola saying defeat would end their title hopes.

What's at stake?

The team trails Arsenal by 6 points but has a game in hand. Victory would cut the gap and ramp up the pressure as the race enters its decisive phase.

Guardiola's view

Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City boss, has called Sunday's Premier League clash with leaders Arsenal a final. He said defeat would effectively end his side's title hopes ahead of the much-anticipated showdown at the Etihad Stadium.

Current form

As of 25 Jun 2026, Manchester City is in 2nd place in the Premier League with 78 points from 38 games, recent form LDWWD. The team has scored 77 goals this season and conceded 35, with a goal difference of +42.

Injury update

Nico O'Reilly, who scored twice in City's 2-0 League Cup final win over Arsenal, is fit after leaving last weekend's game at Chelsea clutching his left hamstring. Rodri is currently sidelined.

Upcoming match

The match against Arsenal is crucial, with Guardiola saying that anything less than three points would leave his team facing too steep a climb. He added that confidence is crucial at this stage of the season and that the team is ready to play.