REPORT: Manchester City 0-0 Arsenal - Resolute Gunners Frustrate Champions

Arsenal produced a resolute display against Manchester City to come away from The Etihad with a hard-earned point. 

The 0-0 draw represents the first time since 2016 that Arsenal have left with anything other than a defeat, and also puts a stop to City's record of scoring in 47 consecutive home games.

Cagey Opening

The game started with a familiar pattern of City dominating possession, but it was clear from the off that Arsenal were happy to relinquish dominance in order to keep their defensive shape. 

Despite their hesitancy, it was Arsenal who created the first chance of note. Ben White found space down the right flank and chipped a deep cross to Gabriel Jesus to control with his chest, before firing wide.

City then produced their best chance of the match in what would turn out to be their only shot on target across the 90 minutes. Kevin De Bruyne whipped a dangerous corner into the centre of the six-yard box which Nathan Ake met, but his header was straight at David Raya.

Arsenal were struggling to find their rhythm in possession, but midway through the half they produced their best passage of play. William Saliba, outstanding throughout, regained possession, before White again found space on the right. Martin Odegaard took control and sprayed a cross to Jakub Kiwior to cut back for Jesus. The Brazilian wriggled to find space, but saw his left-footed effort drift wide of the far post.

Counter Attacking Gunners

City again stepped onto the front foot as the second half began, and threatened from distance through Mateo Kovacic. But Arsenal were growing in confidence and their high-press almost paid dividends.

White, ever the willing runner, forced Josko Gvardiol into a mistake. Odegaard then slipped Bukayo Saka in to play a low ball across the box, where Jesus slid agonizingly close to applying the finishing touch. 

The hosts were getting increasingly frustrated and were struggling to find opportunities against Mikel Arteta's side. Another set piece produced their best moment across the second period though, when a flicked header found Erling Haaland free at the back post, only for the striker to miscue wide. 

There was time for a late opportunity for Arsenal to escape with all three points. Odegaard played Leandro Trossard in, but the Belgian was forced wide and hit a shot straight at Stefan Ortega. 

Spoils Shared

In the end, both sides will feel that they deserved at least a point, while also feeling that three were there for the taking. However, given Arsenal's recent history at The Etihad and the manner in which they collapsed there last season, it will feel like a significant step in the right direction.

Arsenal have dropped to second following Liverpool's 2-1 win over Brighton earlier in the day, but with nine games remaining, the title race is just starting to heat up. 

Significantly, Arsenal are certainly still in it.