This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Arsenal's Hopes of Top Four Finish Dashed in 3-0 Defeat to Man City ¶
On June 17, Arsenal's hopes of sealing a top four finish were dealt a massive blow following a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City at Etihad Stadium.
The match marked the grand return of the Premier League after 100 days following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.
Granit Xhaka was the first to bow out and had to be substituted five minutes into play after he twisted his ankle.
His place was taken by Dani Ceballos who would be joined by David Luiz from the bench in the 22nd minute after Pablo Mari's injury.
However, Luiz's introduction marked the beginning of Arsenal's problems, with the Brazilian defender's defensive gaffe allowing Raheem Sterling to score the opener minutes before half time.
City doubled the advantage just four minutes into the second half through Kevin de Bruyne who scored from the spot after Luiz conceded a penalty.
The incident saw the former Chelsea defender red-carded having been adjudged to have fouled Riyad Mahrez.
The 67th minute of the clash saw Mikel Arteta make his last block of substitution, with Alexander Lacazette, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, and Reiss Nelson being introduced.
Unfortunately, the tactical move did not pay off as the home side went on to add a third through Phil Foden to claim maximum points.
The defeat now leaves Arsenal sitting in ninth with 40 points, eight off a Champions League place.
