While managers insist the make-up of the Premier League table matters little until the end of the season, it’s difficult to look past just how important tonight’s game is.
Any winner at the Etihad Stadium would take command heading into the final few games of the season.
There is plenty of midweek action before another busy weekend, with the Gunners’ trip to the Etihad set to attract much of the attention.
Before that, however, a packed Tuesday schedule saw Crystal Palace beaten by Wolves and Fulham edged out by the in-form Aston Villa, who moved up to fifth.
On Wednesday, Mikel Arteta takes his Gunners side to the Etihad Stadium to meet the champions in a mouth-watering affair.
Elsewhere, Chelsea are in action against west London rivals Brentford while a seemingly refreshed West Ham host Liverpool.
Thursday offers another big game in the race for the top four as crisis club Tottenham host Manchester United.
