Arsenal lost to Manchester City in a tense Premier League clash, with Gabriel among four players rated 5/10 or lower after the Gunners struggled at the Etihad, leaving the title race on a knife-edge
18:58, 19 Apr 2026Updated 18:58, 19 Apr 2026
Referee Anthony Taylor shows a yellow card to Erling Haaland and Gabriel during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal at Etihad Stadium.
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Arsenal have been dealt a huge title blow by Manchester City(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
The Premier League title battle intensified as Arsenal succumbed to a loss against Manchester City. With just a single goal separating the two sides now, Pep Guardiola's team could potentially take the top spot if they claim victory in their upcoming match against Burnley at Turf Moor.
City drew first blood thanks to Rayan Cherki's remarkable display of footwork and clinical finishing. However, Gianluigi Donnarumma's blunder moments later gifted Kai Havertz the opportunity to snatch an equaliser for the Gunners.
Despite creating numerous chances - including a missed opportunity for Kai Havertz and Eberechi Eze's post-rattling attempt - it was ultimately Erling Haaland who made the decisive strike. Gabriel, who wore his heart on his sleeve throughout the match, was fortunate to escape a red card following a heated clash with the Norwegian.
Gabriel and Erling Haaland clash during Manchester City vs Arsenal
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Gabriel should have been sent off(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
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David Raya, 5 - The Spanish goalkeeper displayed early jitters, nearly presenting the ball to Haaland, and was left with little chance to prevent the two goals, reports Football London.
Cristhian Mosquera, 7 - The defender's header from an early corner sailed wide, and he was cautioned in the first half for persistent fouling as he struggled to contain Doku. Despite these challenges, he ultimately did relatively well before being substituted.
William Saliba, 7 - The Frenchman narrowly escaped a penalty call, but did make a crucial goal-line clearance. Overall, he delivered a solid performance.
Gabriel, 5 - Made a crucial block to deny Rayan Cherki the opening goal, deflecting the ball onto the post. However, he was outmuscled by Haaland for City's second goal and was perhaps fortunate to avoid a red card.
Piero Hincapie, 7 - Delivered a vital block to thwart Semenyo's close-range opportunity. His tireless running and effective shutdown of Semenyo were notable highlights.
Martin Zubimendi, 7 - One of the Spaniard's standout performances, which was essential in this high-stakes contest.
Declan Rice, 6 - The midfield engine, but he struggled to assert his presence on the ball during critical moments.
Martin Odegaard, 6 - Returning to the lineup, Odegaard's ability to drop deep and receive the ball helped counter City's press. He created two significant chances with pinpoint passes, but his overall impact was somewhat muted.
Noni Madueke, 5 - Made a few promising runs down the right flank, but ultimately failed to break through and was substituted at halftime by Arteta.
Kai Havertz, 7 - Benefited from the press, intercepting Donnarumma's clearance attempt, which led to the ball rebounding into the net. Odegaard's through ball set him up for a shot, but Donnarumma saved it. He also lost a one-on-one sprint to Bernardo Silva and headed a late chance over the bar, which could have secured a draw.
Eberechi Eze, 7 - Unfortunately, his hesitation in a challenge led to Cherki's opening goal. He nearly made up for it, though, turning onto his left foot and unleashing a shot that hit the post. His substitution, ahead of Odegaard, raised some eyebrows.
Substitutes:
Gabriel Martinelli, 5 - Replaced Madueke at the break but immediately gave the ball away, which nearly led to a goal, with Haaland's shot from the resulting corner hitting the post.
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Ben White, 4 - Struggled to make any meaningful impact on the game.
Leandro Trossard, 6 - Delivered a late cross that could have snatched the desired result for Arsenal.
Viktor Gyokeres, 4 - Introduced late in the game, but didn't have enough time to influence the outcome.