Game-changing officiating development ahead of Arsenal vs Man City clash
Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Manchester City at Emirates Stadium later this month will see new officiating technology being used.
Since Mikel Arteta left Manchester City as assistant manager to become Arsenal‘s new head coach in 2019, the pair have been involved in many feisty encounters.
Recent seasons have seen Arsenal and Man City battle for the Premier League title, and both club’s will harbour aspirations of toppling Liverpool this campaign.
Arsenal are unbeaten in their past four Premier League matches against Guardiola’s side, including a 5-1 thrashing of the Citizens in north London in their last meeting.
Ref Cam to be used during Arsenal v Man City affair
As per the Daily Mail [7 September], the much anticipated first meeting of the season between Arsenal and Man City will see the use of Ref cam.
The match referees will wear a camera, alongside an ear-piece and microphone, offering a unique perspective on incidents to viewers watching on TV.
Ref cam is currently being trialed in the Premier League, but only in selected matches. It was used in Liverpool’s explosive recent win over Newcastle United.
The clash between the rivals at the Etihad last season was a particularly fierce match, with Kyle Walker and John Stones accusing Arsenal of the ‘dark arts’.
Leandro Trossard was sent off in the final moments of the first half with Arsenal 2-1 up in the match, and Man City grabbed a 98th minute equaliser courtesy of Stones.
Arsenal and Man City rivalry keeps intensifying
Football Insider Verdict
In recent seasons the battles between Arsenal and Man City have intensified, with the Premier League title usually on the line.
The 2-2 draw between Man City and Arsenal at the Etihad last season typified the heat of the rivalry, and Gabriel and Erling Haaland have shown their strong will to win on the pitch.
| Arsenal and Manchester City’s past three meetings |
| Premier League – Arsenal 5-1 Manchester City – February 2nd 2025 |
| Premier League – Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal – September 22nd 2024 |
| Premier League – Manchester City 0-0 Arsenal – March 31st 2024 |
Whilst Liverpool come into this season as title favourites, these clashes could still have an effect on the title race and European football.
The referees for the occasion will have their work cut out spotting every incident, though the use of Ref cam will share moments with supporters, with no hiding place for the players on the pitch.
Man City will seek revenge for their last trip to the Emirates, which saw them thrashed and with Bukayo Saka and William Saliba potentially out injured for Arsenal, Guardiola’s side could have the perfect opportunity to take all three points.