Paul Robinson reveals 'huge advantage' Arsenal have over Man City ahead of clash
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Charlie Grace
Tue 16 September 2025 21:00, UK
Arsenal are set to gain a “huge advantage” ahead of their clash against Manchester City at the weekend.
Arsenal’s victory over Nottingham Forest saw Mikel Arteta’s side continue their positive start to the Premier League season.
Martin Odegaard suffered a shoulder injury against Nottingham Forest, and the Norwegian was left out of Arteta’s side in the Champions League against Athletic Club.
Noni Madueke was impressive in Arsenal’s win, and he was a bright spark again for Arteta’s side again at the San Mames.
Credit: Imago
Arsenal are due to play Man City in the Premier League on Sunday, in a clash that may have title race consequences later in the season.
Speaking on BBC 5 Live‘s coverage of the match, Robinson commented on the difference between Arsenal and Man City’s Champions League schedules.
Tuesday to Thursday is a big difference in recovery time.
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“With the game being an early kick off this evening, the Arsenal players will jump on a plane and be back in London by 12/1 o’clock tonight.
“So maybe a morning off tomorrow to recover, then a long time to prepare, more than Manchester City get ahead of the game on Sunday.”
Credit: Imago
Arsenal’s game against Athletic Club kicked off on Tuesday, 16 September at 5:45 pm British Summer Time, with Man City having to wait until Thursday, 18 September at 8:00 pm to kick off their tie against Napoli.
Athletic Club v Arsenal 5:45 BST, 16 SeptemberManchester City v Napoli 8:00 BST, 18 SeptemberArsenal v Manchester City 4:30 BST, 21 SeptemberThis week’s fixtures for Arsenal and Manchester City
Arteta will hope the lengthened break will boost his side’s recovery, with Bukayo Saka and William Saliba looking more and more likely to feature in the match.
With an increased recovery time and two extra days on the training pitch, Arsenal will hope that their Champions League schedule offers them a marginal gain in their huge title clash.