“He made the match personal against us. I was fortunate not to be sent off for my fouls on him, but I’ll get my revenge when we face them again,” says Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva, reflecting on an Arsenal player who truly ‘stepped up’ against City and made them work hard—neither Trossard nor Rice.

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva expressed his frustration over a particular Arsenal player’s performance in their recent clash, admitting that the player took the match personally. Silva confessed that he was fortunate not to be sent off for his challenges against him and vowed to seek revenge in their next meeting. However, the player in question was neither Leandro Trossard nor Declan Rice.

Arsenal delivered a stunning 5-1 victory over Manchester City on Sunday evening, strengthening their pursuit of the Premier League title. Mikel Arteta fielded a strong lineup, reintroducing Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli into the starting eleven. Despite initial concerns about his fitness, David Raya returned as Arsenal’s goalkeeper.

The Gunners started the match aggressively, capitalizing on a defensive mistake from City. Leandro Trossard intercepted a misplaced pass, allowing Kai Havertz to assist Martin Ødegaard, who calmly slotted the ball home for an early lead. Shortly after, Martinelli appeared to have doubled Arsenal’s advantage, but his goal was ruled out for offside.

City responded through Josko Gvardiol, whose powerful header from an Omar Marmoush corner forced Raya into a brilliant save. However, after halftime, City found their equalizer when Erling Haaland rose above William Saliba to nod the ball into the net.

Arsenal wasted no time regaining control. Just 38 seconds after City’s goal, a defensive lapse allowed Thomas Partey to unleash a long-range shot, which deflected into the net. The hosts extended their lead when young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly showcased his skill, cutting inside and firing past Stefan Ortega.

With 15 minutes left on the clock, Arsenal launched a swift counterattack. Martinelli found Havertz, who controlled the ball before curling a precise shot into the corner for the fourth goal. The emphatic performance was sealed in stoppage time by substitute Ethan Nwaneri, who delivered a sublime curling strike past Ortega.

This dominant victory kept Arsenal in second place, six points behind Liverpool. While the Reds remain in pole position for the title, Arsenal’s commanding display against City signaled their determination to fight until the end.

Arsenal Player Ratings

Goalkeeper & Defenders:

David Raya (7/10): Made an outstanding save to deny Gvardiol; couldn’t do much about Haaland’s goal.

Jurrien Timber (7/10): Defended well and contributed in attack; booked late on.

William Saliba (7.5/10): Beaten by Haaland for City’s goal but was otherwise solid.

Gabriel Magalhães (7.5/10): Physically dominant against Haaland, making it difficult for him.

Myles Lewis-Skelly (8.5/10): Silenced City’s attack and scored a brilliant goal.

Midfielders & Forwards:

Martin Ødegaard (7/10): Scored the opener but had a quiet second half.

Thomas Partey (8.5/10): Controlled midfield, scored Arsenal’s second goal.

Declan Rice (8.5/10): High-energy performance, set up two goals.

Gabriel Martinelli (7/10): Caused problems on the right, assisted Havertz.

Kai Havertz (7/10): Assisted Ødegaard, missed an early chance but scored later.

Leandro Trossard (7/10): Created danger on the left and contributed to Arsenal’s opener.

This victory showcased Arsenal’s resilience and title ambitions, proving they are still very much in the race.