Arsenal delivered a statement performance at the Emirates, thrashing Manchester City to move within six points of Premier League leaders Liverpool. With Jurgen Klopp’s side opening up a commanding lead after their win at Bournemouth, the Gunners knew only a victory would suffice—and they responded in emphatic fashion.
Though Arsenal have played a game more than Liverpool, this dominant display keeps them in the title race, while City’s struggles continued in another disappointing outing.
Just like their previous match against Chelsea, City gifted their opponents an early lead. This time, it came within two minutes as defender Manuel Akanji lost possession, allowing Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard to sweep in Kai Havertz’s pass.
Arsenal could have extended their lead further, but Havertz missed a golden chance in the first half—a miss that briefly looked costly when Erling Haaland headed City level in the 55th minute. However, the Gunners responded instantly. Just two minutes later, Thomas Partey’s shot took a decisive deflection off John Stones, wrong-footing City keeper Stefan Ortega and restoring Arsenal’s lead.
The home side’s dominance continued, and in the 62nd minute, 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly marked the occasion with his first senior goal. His powerful strike beat Ortega despite the keeper getting a hand to it, making it 3-1.
City’s collapse deepened as Arsenal extended their lead further. Havertz, making up for his earlier miss, produced a composed left-footed finish into the far corner with 14 minutes remaining. Then, to cap off a memorable night for the club’s young talents, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri curled a stunning shot past Ortega after being picked out brilliantly by Declan Rice.
This comprehensive victory keeps Arsenal in the hunt for the Premier League title while adding to City’s growing list of struggles this season. With young stars stepping up and the team showing resilience, the Gunners remain firmly in the race—waiting for any slip-up from Liverpool.