This was a pivotal day in an absorbing title race contested between the master and the apprentice, with the Gunners eager to shun their tag as uneasy ‘bottlers’.
And there were early Arsenal nerves aplenty, as Erling Haaland almost intercepted David Raya from Gabriel’s sloppy backpass, before Rayan Cherki’s shot hit the post.
However, despite Arsenal regaining some composure, it was Cherki who landed the first blow in this PL heavyweight clash, as he waltzed his way past Gabriel and Rice before firing a brilliant right-footed shot into the bottom corner to score his 10th goal of the season.
The Citizens’ joy was short-lived, though, as they conceded in disastrous fashion just two minutes later.
Uncharacteristically, Gianluigi Donnarumma was caught dawdling on the ball, and Kai Havertz intercepted the Italian to restore parity for Arsenal.
With no let up from either attacking force, that theme of defensive instability continued throughout the half, but neither side inflicted any further damage to leave the contest finely poised at HT.
City spurned two quickfire opportunities to reclaim their lead after the restart when Abdukodir Khusanov’s shot was blocked, before Haaland rattled the woodwork.
Arteta’s side were struggling to find their flow, but Donnarumma was suddenly called into action to deny Havertz at the end of a rapid break involving Eberechi Eze and Martin Ødegaard.
Eze rattled the post himself moments later, before a predictable source regained the advantage for Pep Guardiola’s men.
Haaland outmuscled Gabriel to convert a brilliant close-range finish past Raya following some fine work involving Jérémy Doku and Nico O'Reilly on the left-hand side.
Arteta’s side were on the ropes, but couldn’t be accused of going down without a fight.
When Gabriel’s header hit the frame of the goal, many in attendance would have sensed that another sucker punch was not far away.
The Brazilian was involved in a keenly-fought battle with Haaland throughout the 90 minutes, and was fortunate not to receive his marching orders after making an attempted headbutt in the Norwegian’s direction.
Havertz would then have one final chance to salvage a point, only for his header to graze the roof of the net in the fifth minute of seven added on.
Ultimately, there would be no further twist in this particular tale at the Etihad, in a game which could have seismic implications in determining who goes on to win the PL title.
Arsenal’s agonising 22-year wait for a top-flight crown could now be extended after succumbing to a fourth consecutive domestic defeat, which includes last month’s Carabao Cup final.
Meanwhile, the hosts appear to have the bit between their teeth in pursuit of a fifth title in six seasons.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City)
