Verdict: Regis Le Bris
Arsenal Football Newsletter
The Black Cats have faced, and held, both Premier League title contenders at the Stadium of Light this season, snatching a late draw against the Gunners back in November.
On New Year’s Day, Sunderland battled to a goalless draw against Man City in a result that meant Pep Guardiola’s side dropped two points in the title race.
As a result, at the halfway point of the Premier League campaign, Arsenal hold a four-point lead at the top of the table and can extend the gap to seven before City are next in action.
Le Bris, though, is anticipating a competitive title race, even if he believes Arsenal are “a bit more clinical” in a rather surprising comparison to Man City.
“They are really good,” the Sunderland boss said of the two title contenders.
“It will be a question of consistency, it’s always the case. They are a bit different, but I think they are competitive for the title.
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“I think probably in a few words, I would say Arsenal are a bit more clinical, a bit more direct with their ability to score, even if it’s not pass, pass, pass.
“Here, we can feel the identity of Pep Guardiola. Even if Mikel Arteta is Spanish as well, I think Guardiola is impressive in the way he can build up the play.”
Arsenal return to action on Saturday as they face an out-of-form Bournemouth side at the Vitality Stadium.
The following day sees Man City welcome managerless Chelsea to the Etihad Stadium as they week to bounce back from the goalless draw with Sunderland.