Along with the French Ligue 1, the English Premier League is set to resume play on June 17, as European soccer returns to the pitch — with empty stadiums due to restrictions mandated by the COVID-19 pandemic. When the EPL went on pause, Manchester City sat in second place in the table with 57 points — an unthinkable 25 points out of first place, behind Liverpool, who still has a 27-1-1 record. The Citizens welcome Arsenal in their first game back; the Gunners are in ninth place in the table, with 40 points — but just eight points back of fourth place, which would provide a slot in the 2020-2021 UEFA Champions League. It is likely that both sides will show a little rust after so much time away from competitive play — so what’s the smart sports betting move for this match? Take a look at our thoughts as you plan your wagering. Let’s see how the Premier League Odds will be for the City vs Arsenal.
English Premier League: Manchester City vs Arsenal (June 17)
- When: Wednesday, June 17, 2020, 3:15 pm ET
- Where: City of Manchester Stadium, Manchester
- TV: NBC SPORTS
- Radio: None
- Live Stream: fuboTV
- Premier League Odds: Manchester City 1.36 / Draw 5.95 / Arsenal 10.00
Why should you put your money on Arsenal?
Arsenal’s last EPL match came on March 7, as they hosted West Ham United. The match looked like it would turn out as a scoreless draw until Alexandre Lacazette found the back of the net for Arsenal, giving them a 1-0 lead that would stand the rest of the way.
Arsenal possessed for 73 percent of the match but was out shot 14-9 by West Ham United (6-2 on target). The teams were even on corners, with West Ham United getting seven to six for the hosts. The game was not especially physical, with 20 combined fouls, although three yellow cards were issued (two to West Ham). Arsenal’s approach was conservative and quiet. They ended up getting the win, but it is hard to say that they would prevail against a team much higher up the table.
Why should you bet on Manchester City?
Manchester City has had plenty of time to ponder their last EPL match, which took place on March 8. They faced their crosstown rivals, Manchester United, in a spirited derby that saw Man U deliver a 2-0 thumping at Old Trafford. Anthony Martial opened the scoring for the Red Devils in the 30th minute, and it looked like the match might end that way, but then Scott McTominay tallied in injury time at the end of the second half for a belated insurance goal.
City possessed for 73 percent of the match but only mustered six shots, to nine for the Red Devils. Four of those shots were on frame, but none of them found their way home. The teams combined to commit 20 fouls and draw six yellow cards (four for the Citizens). City also mounted significant pressure, forcing 11 corner kicks, but none of those set pieces paid off for the visitors. If you like City here, you see them coming out with plenty of energy to solve those finishing problems that plagued them in that derby.
City vs Arsenal Final Score Prediction
One phenomenon that we have observed since the Bundesliga restarted play is that away teams are winning more than home teams. While I don’t see Arsenal heading up to City and coming out of there with three points, I do like the value that the draw option offers here. These teams have not played for over three months, and even after a full contingent of training, it is not like City was on fire before the hiatus. I see Arsenal getting back on the train with a point from their 1-1 draw.
