Man City’s defeat to Real Madrid is of little concern to Arsenal boss

By James Cunliffe Friday, September 21, 2012
3:59 PM

Arsene Wenger does not expect Manchester City’s dramatic Champions League defeat to Real Madrid to have a major impact on their domestic clash at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday but is keen to focus on his side.

The Gunners beat reigning French Ligue 1 kings Montpellier 2-1 in midweek but the Citizens let in two late goals to steal a 3-2 defeat from the jaws of victory at the Bernabéu.

“I expect them [City] to be focused and play well, but it was a disappointment for them of course. It always takes a little bit away from you,” Wenger said on the English champions’ heartbreak in the Spanish capital.

“But on our side, let’s not have any speculation of the weakness or strength of them, let’s focus on us to be at our best.

“If we are at our best I think we have a great chance to get a good result there.”

Both Arsenal and City are yet to taste defeat this term but Wenger’s have been particularly impressive in domestic action, conceding just one goal so far.

While the Gunners boss has previously stated that he’ll know more about his side’s title credentials after ten games, the next week is set to prove an early benchmark, with European champions Chelsea coming to Emirates Stadium next weekend.

Wenger said: “It will tell us a lot about our quality and how we handle the big games will decide how well we do in the championship.”