Mikel Arteta has backed Arsenal centre-back Gabriel to embrace the challenge of going head-to-head with Erling Haaland when the Gunners take on Manchester City in a huge Premier League clash this Sunday. The Brazilian defender and the Norwegian striker have clashed in the past, with their fiery battles becoming a storyline of their rivalry.

Mikel Arteta has introduced a hardline rule at Arsenal, reportedly designed to boost unity, but it’s hitting his players squarely in the pocket. The Gunners boss, desperate to finally deliver the Premier League crown to north London after two decades of waiting, has made it mandatory for his squad to gather at the training ground before every single match, home or away.

Arsenal and Manchester City played out a dramatic 1-1 draw on Sunday, with the two Premier League rivals unable to be separated through 98 or so minutes. Erling Haaland had given the visitors an early lead, before Pep Guardiola remarkably decided to park the bus to try and sneak the win. Those efforts went up in smoke in added time as Gabriel Martinelli scored to clinch a point for the Gunners.

Gary Neville has branded Arsenal a 'one-trick pony' under Mikel Arteta, questioning whether the Gunners truly believe they can win the Premier League. The Manchester United legend criticised Arsenal’s reliance on set pieces following their 1-1 draw with Manchester City, warning that without greater attacking spark, their title push could ultimately fall short.

Arsenal have reportedly made contact with the entourage of a rising Serie A star but will have to splash the cash to sign him. The Gunners spent just under €300 million (£262m) on signings this summer but speculation is mounting that they are ready to go big again. But a certain European giant is unlikely to want to sell one of their prized assets.