Arsenal is out of the FA Cup, but more challenges are coming

Okay, it wasn’t the outcome we wanted, but Mikel Arteta’s starting XI, which included six different players from last Sunday, proved to be the equals to Pep Guardiola’s side, which featured only two changes from their last match.

A moment of confusion inside the penalty box allowed Nathan Ake to score City’s winning goal, but even TV commentator Danny Higgenbotham declared Arsenal was the better team on the day.

Yes, we have been knocked-out of the FA Cup this season. It’s not the worse thing that could happen, but it is disappointing. Actually, I was more concerned Friday’s match could end in a draw, which would have meant another fixture added to an already busy list. With that said, Arteta and his squad can now put all of their focus on the Premier League and the Europa League. Both are competitions the Gunners can win.

For me, Friday’s stars of the match for Arsenal were Matt Turner and Leandro Trossard. Matt continues to be one of the best back-up keepers in England, while our new #19 proved his worth with some sensational play throughout the match.

On the down side of Friday’s match is the rib injury to Thomas Partey. The boss indicated the midfielder will have an MRI in London. Hopefully, this break before the Everton match will give him time to heal and be ready to go on Saturday.

So, after the first match-up of the season, Guardiola leads Arteta 1-0, however, they will meet again on February 15th in north London. Both sides will start their best XI’s that day, so this should prove to be a more even match-up to see who is England’s best team this season.

Of course, I predict it will be ARSENAL!

Cheers.

Gunner1953