Matchday 28 of the Premier League began with a surprise. Aston Villa, third in the table until then, were defeated away to Wolves. This puts Unai Emery's side 13 points behind Arsenal. Although they have a game in hand, even if they win that game, they would still be 10 points behind with 10 games to go. An almost insurmountable gap.

Manchester City and Arsenal did not slip up. Pep Guardiola's side won at Leeds United thanks to a solitary goal from Semenyo and their solid defence. Arteta's side won the derby against Chelsea 2-1 thanks to two goals from corners. Now the Premier League is a matter for the Sky Blues and the Gunners. Arsenal are five points ahead of City, although they have played one game more.

Premier League standings

1. Arsenal 64 points (one game in hand)
2. Manchester City 59 points
3. Manchester United 51 points
4. Aston Villa 51 points

In four matchdays, the direct duel

In this context, if Manchester City wins its pending match (against Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium), it will be two points behind Arsenal. Thus, the clash between the two on matchday 33, scheduled for 18 April, could be decisive in determining the 2025/2026 Premier League champion. Above all, for the team that faces it from behind in the standings.

But first, both teams have to play some difficult matches. Mikel Arteta's side will need to be more reliable away from home, as they have conceded several draws in their last few away games, which their rivals have taken advantage of to close the gap between them. Pep Guardiola's side, meanwhile, have a more difficult schedule, with a visit to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea as their most difficult match.

Arsenal and Manchester City's fixtures before they meet

• Brighton - Arsenal
• Manchester City - Nottingham Forest
• Arsenal - Everton
• West Ham - Manchester City
• Arsenal - Bournemouth
• Chelsea - Manchester City