Home Football GUNNED DOWN: Alan Shearer snubs Declan Rice, Havertz and Raya and picks just four Arsenal players in combined XI with Man City

GUNNED DOWN: Alan Shearer snubs Declan Rice, Havertz and Raya and picks just four Arsenal players in combined XI with Man City

Football — 09/20/2024

In addition, Alan Shearer revealed his anticipated score for Man City vs. Arsenal.

Only four Arsenal players made up Alan Shearer’s combined starting lineup with Manchester City.

This Sunday at the Etihad, City takes on the Gunners in a match that might end up being a fight for the Premier League summit and the eventual winner of the championship.

Alan Shearer picked his combined XI ahead of Manchester City's clash with ArsenalAlan Shearer picked his combined XI ahead of Manchester City’s clash with ArsenalCredit: Getty

Shearer, 54, chose seven of Pep Guardiola’s aces for his starting lineup, suggesting that he thinks the Citizens have a star-studded advantage.

The Newcastle icon chose Ederson to start in goal instead of David Raya for Arsenal, even after the latter’s incredible double-save performance over the week.

Alongside the Gunners’ hero of a comeback, Jurrien Timber, Kyle Walker made it to right-back, while his teammates William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes partnered with him at centre back.

The BBC commentator then voted for a full City midfield, starting Rodri alongside Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva, leaving out Declan Rice, the standout player for the Gunners.

The star of Arsenal, Bukayo Saka, was selected to start on the right wing up front, with Erling Haaland leading the assault and Phil Foden on the opposite side.

Despite having a strong start to the season—two goals and one assist in four Premier League games—Kai Havertz was left out.

Many anticipate a thrilling match in May between the two teams most likely to win the Premier League championship.

Shearer, on the other hand, believes that Arsenal and City will draw this Saturday.

Shearer left Arsenal stars Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and David Raya out of his Combined XIShearer left Arsenal stars Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and David Raya out of his Combined XI

And the Premier League’s record goalscorer is adamant that wouldn’t be a bad result after Liverpool’s loss to Nottingham Forest last week.

Shearer told Betfair: “I am going for a draw in this one.

“Even though Man City is playing at home, a draw for both sides isn’t a bad outcome because it’s been a difficult week for both teams, as they both participated in the Champions League.

“Liverpool have dropped points already, Arsenal have dropped two points already at home to Brighton, but I don’t think a draw would be a disaster for either team.”