Man City vs Arsenal EPL betting tips & predictions

Manchester City vs Arsenal EPL betting preview

After several months of uncertainty, the English Premier League returns this week with Manchester City hosting Arsenal in the second of two matches on Wednesday night.

Usually a sellout fixture, the clash at Etihad Stadium will take place behind closed doors as part of the league’s strict measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

One could forgive Man City if they seem reluctant to play out the season. Their title defence is long dead, while the club’s two-year ban from European competition – pending the outcome of an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport – means a top-four finish might count for nothing.

For Arsenal, the extended break was anything but dull. Coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for the coronavirus in March, but he had recovered by the end of the month and will take his place on the sidelines in Manchester.

Although they are well back in the pack, the Gunners still have something to play for. They sit ninth in the EPL standings after 28 games, but only five points separate them from fifth-placed Manchester United.

That spot on the fringe of the top four is hotly contested, as it may be enough for a UEFA Champions League berth if Man City’s European ban is upheld.

Man City vs Arsenal first goalscorer betting

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang went into lockdown as the Premier League’s second-top scorer with 17 goals from 26 appearances. If he finds the back of the net on Wednesday night, the Gabon striker will become the sixth-fastest player to notch 50 goals in the EPL. With Man City heavily favoured to strike the first blow, there is value in backing Aubameyang to open the scoring.

Man City vs Arsenal match predictions

Arsenal have improved under Arteta, but can they handle a well-rested Manchester City side on their own deck? Pep Guardiola’s men needed a break and should come out with a vigour he haven’t seen since early in the season. Both sides have gifted forwards and a few defensive issues, so we should see goals at either end.