Gary Neville says he’s never seen a team make it as difficult for Man City as Arsenal did on Sunday afternoon.
The title contenders played out a relatively uneventful 0-0 draw at the Etihad, allowing Liverpool to take a two point lead at the top.
It was the first time that the champions had failed to score at home in 57 matches with the Gunners defending brilliantly on the day.
Speaking after the match, Sky Sports pundit Neville said: ‘I just think Arsenal made it so difficult for them.
‘I’ve never seen a team make it so difficult for Manchester City in the final third. There didn’t seem to be any spaces. The way in which Arsenal defended was quite unique.’
Gary Neville says he’s never seen a team make it as difficult for Man City as Arsenal did
‘Last year it was suggested that without William Saliba they were harmed, and that’s been proven today.
‘Saliba was immense, there’s no doubt about that. So was Gabriel.
‘The two centre-halves were fantastic,’ added Neville. ‘They headed everything away, they really did gang up on Haaland. It was a classic one go tight and one hold off, old-fashioned tactics.
‘Everyone has a plan before the game but when you come to Man City, ultimately you know you are going to have to defend,’ he said.
‘The players said that they didn’t plan t be that deep in the second half but Man City force you back.
Gabriel and William Saliba did a brilliant job of handling City striker Erling Haaland
‘In possession I think Arsenal probably wanted to do a bit better but they were chasing the ball for long periods in the game. You are going to have heavy legs.
‘They had some moments. They had two shots on target and City only had one, so Arsenal will be pleased.
‘You have to look at City as the home team and their record, it’s a more disappointing result for them. You have to give credit to Arsenal.’
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