Paul Merson explains Mikel Arteta ‘headache’ and makes Man City vs Arsenal prediction

Paul Merson believes Mikel Arteta is grappling with a selection headache ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City.

The reigning Premier League champions play host to last year’s runners-up in what promises to be an explosive contest at the Etihad Stadium.

City have yet to drop a point, while Arsenal will be looking to make it back-to-back league wins after their derby-day victory over Tottenham last time out.

The Gunners will be buoyed by the return of Declan Rice who missed the clash with Spurs due to suspension.

Veteran midfielder Jorginho filled in for the Englishman last weekend for his first start of the season but was dropped to the bench for Arsenal’s midweek draw against Atalanta in the Champions League.

However, Merson, who made his Strictly Come Dancing debut last night, believes Arteta may consider returning the Italian to the starting line-up on Sunday, potentially moving Thomas Partey to the subs bench.

‘It’s a real headache for Arteta now. He must decide whether he should play Jorginho or not,’ the former Arsenal midfielder told Sportskeeda.

‘I have a strong feeling Jorginho will play this game despite Declan Rice returning from his suspension. With Kai Havertz in midfield the other day, it really helped both Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

‘One thing Jorginho does really well is, he keeps the ball. During the 1-0 win at Emirates last season, City could not touch him, he was just too good.’

Last season saw a more defensive Arsenal settle for a point away from home, and Merson is expecting a similar result this time, even if Arteta’s side are more adventurous this time around.

‘Kevin De Bruyne is likely to miss this game, but City have incredible depth,’ he added.

‘My head is saying Manchester City [will] win, but my heart says “Don’t get beat Arsenal”. If I had to pick one team to win, that would be City but I’m still going for a draw.’

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