Saliba’s Defensive Stats
Manchester City face Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon. Both teams have started well this season with neither side losing a game so far. Arsenal have been solid at the back, only conceding once in four games. William Saliba has made on average four tackles per game so far this season. In terms of tackle stats, he is joint 2nd with 16 tackles, only behind Fulham’s Antonee Robinson with 20.
Saliba will battle against Erling Haaland who’s in the form of his life with nine goals in just four games. In context, the players in joint second for the golden boot are on three goals.
I think Haaland will cause the Frenchman to lunge in an attempt to win the ball at times in the match, that’s why I’m backing Saliba to make over 1.5 tackles at 1.80.
Man City vs Arsenal Preview
City remain the only team to pick up maximum points after four games. They will be in for their toughest game so far against the Gunners who they failed to beat last season, after a draw at the Etihad and an Arsenal win at the Emirates.
Arsenal are currently on 10 points and have won all their games except for their draw to Brighton. They welcome back Declan Rice to the side after suspension in that draw which will solidify their midfield for when they face the reigning champions.
Injury Woes
Unfortunately, Man City captain, Kevin De Bruyne picked up an injury against Inter in their 0-0 midweek draw at San Siro and had to come off shortly into the second half. Other than that, the home side have a full strength squad.
Arsenal have some injury worries of their own with captain Martin Odegaard having sustained ankle ligament damage which has ruled him out for a lengthy spell. New signing, Mikel Merino is still out with a shoulder injury, however, Riccardo Calafiori is back this weekend after picking up an injury during international duty. He is however, expected to start on the bench after some strong performances from Jurrien Timber of late.
