Phil Foden netted a hatrick over Aston Villa as Manchester City came out 4-1 winners to continue their title challenge.
With Bukayo Saka out for Arsenal due to injury and Kevin de Bruyne and Erling Haaland rested for City, both sides still picked up wins in Wednesday’s Premier League action.
The Gunners hosted Luton Town and picked up a 2-0 victory courtesy of Martin Odegaard and a Daiki Hashioka own goal.
The win sends Mikel Arteta’s side back to the summit of the table, a point clear of Liverpool who take on Sheffield United on Thursday.
For Pep Guardiola’s team, it is another top four opponent out of the way, with Villa proving to be a tough threat to deal with in the opening exchanges.
Rodri put the Citizens in front early on but Jhon Duran levelled matters on the 20 minute mark to show the hosts that it would not be easy going at the Etihad.
On the brink of half-time, Foden showed he had other plans though.
The England international threw a curveball into Unai Emery’s plans with a terrific free kick to put City in front for the first time on the night.
After the break there would be no looking back, either, with the 23-year-old making it three and then 4-1 in some style to send his side level on points with the Reds.
In the other game on the night, Brentford and Brighton played out a 0-0 draw that saw Bees striker Ivan Toney’s Premier League goal draught extend to seven games.
On Thursday, the Reds will host Sheffield before Manchester United make a trip to Stamford Bridge where Chelsea will look to go within five points of the Red Devils in the top half of the table.
Pictured above: Phil Foden
Image source: @mancity
