'Excellent' - £12m Arsenal star shines ahead of Manchester City clash

It's crunch time this weekend in the Premier League with Arsenal heading up to the Etihad to take on Manchester City in what could be a key title-deciding clash.

The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League on the same number of points as Liverpool with Pep Guardiola's Citizens just one point below. With ten fixtures left to go, no side can afford any mistakes with City hopeful of replicating last year's treble success; Arsenal seeking their first Premier League title since 2004 and Liverpool looking to gift Jurgen Klopp one last trophy before his exit from Anfield.

While stars from around the league were recently representing their respective countries on international duty, Arteta will have been keeping a watchful eye on his squad as he prepares to select his chosen starting XI for this weekend's all-important clash.

This decision may well be helped by the praise received by one star following his 'incredibly impressive' performance for his country. Jorginho played 67 minutes for Italy against Ecuador last night and TBR Football have deemed him 'un-droppable' for the upcoming fixture with the Italian media praising the 32-year-old for how he 'expertly' controlled the midfield.

Writing after Italy's 2-0 win over Ecuador, the Italian media outlet OA Calcio said of the Gunners midfielder: "He controls the manoeuvre expertly, especially in the first half with a couple of excellent plays."

According to Sofascore, the ex-Chelsea star won five duels in the middle, made 35 touches and completed 93% of his 29 passes. With Thomas Partey now available having gained his fitness back, Jorginho's international performance comes at a key time for squad selection. While he may not be used for the full 90 minutes, Jorginho's calmness would be exceptionally beneficial for the Gunners as they seek their second win over Manchester City this 2023/24 season.

It is currently unknown whether Arteta will be joined by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel for Saturday's trip but it is confirmed that Guardiola will be without key playmaker Kevin de Bruyne and first-choice goalkeeper Ederson. England international Kyle Walker was also forced off during the Three Lions 1-0 defeat to Brazil and it is not yet known whether he will be fit enough to return to the pitch this weekend.