Match Preview: Arsenal vs Manchester City

Arsenal and Manchester City meet for the first time during the 2024/2025 season in a blockbuster match at the Emirates, Home of The Arsenal.  

The match takes place at 12:30pm on Sunday 22nd September and is available to watch on Sky Sports.  

This meet could be the game of the season, and even an early title decider with both teams looking to get their hands on the Women’s Super League trophy this season, hoping to potentially end Chelsea’s dominance. 

Could ex-Arsenal stars come back to haunt them? 

All eyes are on Manchester City’s summer signing, Vivianne Miedema. 

Earning 106 caps in seven years for Arsenal and 125 goals, Viv left to join title rivals City after not being offered a new contract. 

Although not a sight that Arsenal fans will want to see, especially in their own backyard, Vivienne Miedema will be the focus on Sunday and a massive threat. 

Another thing for Arsenal and Jonas Eidevell to think about is the possible return of Jill Roord.  

On the 16th of September in a press conference ahead of City’s game against Paris fc, Gareth Taylor revealed Jill Roord is back in full training with her expecting to play a few minutes in the final games before the Women’s Super League kicks off.  

Could we see another ex-Arsenal player potentially come back to haunt them? 

Arsenal summer singings: 

Despite the outgoings Arsenal have also made some star summer signings, with Barcelona star Mariona Caldentey joining the squad.  

Scoring 114 goals in her time at Barcelona, Caldentey could fill the Miedema sized hole at Arsenal. 

During pre-season, Caldentey has looked dangerous, working well with other summer signing – Rosa Kafaji. 

Kafaji was signed from BK Häcken after scoring 12 goals for them in 28 games last season. 

Fans have praised Arsenal for these signings, as they believe they could give them the edge over rivals City and Chelsea. 

Is there anything separating the two, based on past results? 

There is much more to this game than just the summer signings.  

It will be a very close contest with City finishing second in the WSL last season, five points ahead of Arsenal in third.  

In their two WSL meetings last season, Arsenal won both, with an unexpected 2-1 win in May 2024 at the Joie Stadium and the Emirates in November 2023.  

Although, City did knock the Gunners out in a controversial 1-0 win in the FA cup in February 2024.  

There really is no separating of the sides, and it is impossible to predict what the outcome on Saturday will be.  

Will we see Manchester City take their first win at the Emirates over Arsenal or will Arsenals continue their streak of 5 wins at the Emirates? 

The only way to know is to tune in to Sky Sports at 12:30 on Sunday 22nd September. 

Featured image Courtsey of Gabriella Valentine