LONDON: Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal have a golden opportunity to underline their title credentials when they host champions Manchester City today.
Wenger’s side had a dismal record against the Premier League’s top clubs last season and humiliating defeats at Chelsea, Liverpool and City ended the Gunners’ hopes of challenging for their first English crown since 2004.
But the Arsenal manager believes his team’s performance in recovering to secure a 2-2 draw after falling two goals behind at Everton last month highlighted their greater resilience this season.
And a win against Manuel Pellegrini’s side at the Emirates Stadium would, in Wenger’s view, confirm his players are ready to face the main title contenders on equal terms.
“It’s a good opportunity to show that we have improved on that front,” Wenger said.
“We have now got the opportunity to show that we have grown as a team, that we are more mature and ready for the fight. Let’s do it.”
Meanwhile, City defender Pablo Zabaleta has singled out Alexis Sanchez as the key man to stop. Sanchez joined the Gunners from Barcelona for £35 million in the close-season and Zabaleta reckons the Chile winger will pose the greatest threat to City.
“Sanchez is a very quick, sharp player who can play wide or as a striker but I feel he is most dangerous when he is on the flanks,” he said.
“He did very well at Barcelona and he is a difficult player because you know you are in for a tough afternoon when you face him.” — AFP