Another crucial WSL clash awaits as Arsenal travel North to take on title rivals Manchester City. With just one point separating the sides, a victory would see Arsenal overtake the Blues and climb the table.
Recent Meetings: Tight encounters and Last Minute Winners
The reverse fixture at the Emirates saw the two sides share the points in a 2-2 draw. Frida Maanum’s early goal gave the Gunners an ideal start, but Vivianne Miedema’s equaliser and City’s second half resurgence threatened to derail Arsenal until a late Beth Mead strike ensured the points went one a piece.
Arsenal have enjoyed a solid record against City, going unbeaten in their last four games against Gareth Taylor’s side. Most memorably perhaps, was Arsenal’s triumphant 2-1 win, where Stina Blackstenius’ last minute brace smashed the Blues’ title hopes last season. City, meanwhile, have enjoyed just one win in their last seven WSL encounters with Arsenal.
Arsenal’s Angle: Aiming to Bounce Back in the WSL
Despite an impressive 5-0 midweek win in the FA Cup this week, Arsenal will be determined to make an impact in the WSL after their frustrating defeat to Chelsea last weekend. They will be hoping for a strong performance that capitalises on City’s mistakes and to take the three points away with them.
Beth Mead is on the brink of history, needing just one more goal to reach 50 WSL goals for Arsenal – a milestone only Vivianne Miedema, Kim Little and Jordan Nobbs have achieved. Her sharpness in front of goal could be critical in what promises to be a tightly contested match.
Team news sees captain Kim Little sidelined after undergoing surgery on her hand and question marks over Caitlin Foord and Lina Hurtig. Katie McCabe will serve a match ban due to receiving a red card last weekend.
Manchester City’s Form – Inconsistent but Danergous
Despite a dominant 4-2 win over Aston Villa last weekend, City’s form has been inconsistent, suffering three losses already this season – including a shock defeat to Everton. Their attack, however, remains dangerous with 25 league goals this season and Bunny Shaw leading the WSL scoring charts with nine goals in ten matches.
City have already lost at Joie Stadium this season, but haven’t suffered back to back home league defeats since 2021 – a record Arsenal will aim to break.
The Cityzens will be without Alex Greenwood and Lauren Hemp who continue their injury recoveries. Khiara Keating remains uncertain after missing out in last week’s match. Bunny Shaw could return to the starting lineup after appearing as a substitute against Villa.
Final Thoughts
With both teams needing a win to keep pace in the title race, this promises to be a fiercely contested match. Arsenal’s recent record against City gives them confidence, but Taylor’s side will be desperate to make a statement.
The match kicks off on Sunday 2nd February at 12:00pm.