How can the Gunners hold on to victory as Manchester City approaches? Four things Arteta must do this season

As Manchester City narrows the points gap to four points, Arsenal coach Arteta faces a severe test. To ensure success, he must learn from the past and make key adjustments.

Learning from the past

After Sunderland equalized at the last minute to end the Gunners' nine-game winning streak, Arteta suffered his first weekend in weeks in which he failed to score all three points. Manchester City's strong performance the next day reduced the gap to four points, sending a clear signal that Guardiola's side were back in the title race. Arsenal are now better placed than ever to compete for the title, but Arteta must make key adjustments to ensure the team's momentum does not fade.

Facing Manchester City head-on and fighting for victory

Defeating direct competitors is the most effective way to maintain a lead. Arsenal must not be timid when facing Manchester City again. Past encounters have shown that Arteta's team has the ability to compete with its opponents, but often fails to score. The Gunners have not won at the Etihad Stadium since 2015 - an embarrassing record that must end if they are to challenge Manchester City's throne. This matchup in April could decide the course of the season, and Arsenal must fight it with a mindset of winning, not keeping a draw.

Make good use of lineup depth

Nowadays, a deep lineup has become one of Arsenal's biggest advantages. Smart signings such as Rice, Dzekeresh, Raya, Eze and Zubimendi have eliminated the need for Arteta to overuse core players. The situation of Saliba's injury leading to the collapse of the season in 2023 is still vivid, but now the Gunners can make rotations while maintaining combat effectiveness. Using the entire lineup wisely will be the key to staying competitive in multi-front battles.

Reject draw thinking

A draw away from home may seem acceptable, but in the fierce title race, it may cost Arsenal dearly. Manchester City have proven that winning titles is about consistency rather than flawlessness - even one mistake can turn momentum around. The Gunners must develop the ability to finish games, especially to secure victory against mid-table teams. The draw against Sunderland should be seen as a warning rather than an acceptable pattern.

Go for the Carabao Cup

Winning trophies builds belief, and the Carabao Cup provides Arsenal with the ideal opportunity to develop a winning habit. Guardiola's Manchester City used this as the basis for an era of dominance - winning the cup before winning the league. Winning at Wembley will not only quell doubts about Arteta's championship honors, but also strengthen the team's winning mentality. Although strong rivals such as Chelsea and Manchester City are still competing, winning this trophy may be the spark that ignites Arsenal's historic season.

The season is long and Arteta’s team is facing a real test. Whether it can turn paper strength into championship trophies, every next step is crucial.