September 22nd 2024.
It was a highly anticipated Premier League match as Arsenal faced off against Manchester City. However, Arsenal fans were disappointed to see Ben White only on the bench for the game. They were hoping to see their star player in action against the undefeated Man City.
Both teams were determined to make a statement in the title race and secure a victory. Arsenal, who had just bounced back from a disappointing draw with Brighton, were looking to continue their strong start to the season. Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, made two changes to the team for the game, with White being replaced by summer signing Riccardo Calafiori.
Calafiori made his full debut for Arsenal, playing at left-back while Jurrien Timber covered for White on the right. Leandro Trossard was also included in the starting lineup after a goalless draw with Atalanta in the Champions League. It was later revealed that White was dealing with a minor knee injury, which is why he was benched for the game.
During his pre-match interview, Arteta admitted that it was a tough decision to drop White and start Calafiori, but he had full faith in his players. Former Man City player Raheem Sterling, who had joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea, was also on the bench alongside White.
On the other hand, Man City's talisman Kevin de Bruyne was completely left out of the lineup after his half-time substitution in the previous game. Ilkay Gundogan was brought in to replace him, while Kyle Walker and Jeremy Doku also made it to the starting eleven.
Arteta spoke about the team's preparation for the game, saying that they had been preparing for this match since pre-season. They were aware of the tough schedule, with three away games in just eight days, but they had prepared themselves both physically and mentally.
Despite the season being just five weeks old, former Premier League midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker believed that Arsenal's title hopes would be dashed if they lost to Man City. He also mentioned that the absence of Martin Odegaard, who was a key player for Arsenal, could pose a problem for the team.
However, Clinton Morrison, another former Premier League player, thought that a loss to Man City would not completely rule out Arsenal's title chances. He also mentioned the possible impact of key Man City players who had yet to hit their stride this season.
Meanwhile, former Man City midfielder Michael Brown believed that the outcome of the game would have a huge psychological impact for both teams. He described it as a "wonderful occasion" and expected Arsenal to put up a tough fight against the in-form Man City.
Overall, it was a highly anticipated game that had fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams were determined to come out on top and make a statement in the title race. It was a thrilling match that showcased the best of Premier League football.
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