Arsenal and Manchester City sit first and second in the Premier League table respectively, but a clash between the current leaders will have to wait for now.
The rivals were set to square off in an intriguing battle at the Emirates tonight, where Arsenal have been in superb form this season, winning all five league games, including against Liverpool and Tottenham.
City, particularly after suffering defeat to Liverpool, would have been determined to close the gap between themselves and Arsenal. However, the clash has been postponed - and Sportsmail explains why below.
Why was Arsenal vs Man City postponed?
Tonight's fixture between Arsenal and Manchester City was postponed to accommodate the Gunners' Europa League tie against Dutch side PSV, which takes place tomorrow night.
Arsenal had been due to play the in-form Eredivisie side at the Emirates on Thursday, September 15, but it was postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Premier League fixtures the weekend just gone had also been postponed following, and though Liverpool and Manchester City played midweek European clashes, Arsenal's was not able to go ahead.
UEFA confirmed the game was to be pushed back because of 'severe limitations on police resources' in London due to the Queen's funeral.
Arsenal were at risk of forfeiting the three points if their clash against PSV couldn't be rearranged, as per UEFA regulations, but the Premier League agreed to move the game against City to avoid that scenario.
The north London side reportedly were keen for the game to continue, though, exploring the option of reversing the tie and playing their original September 15 date in Eindhoven.
It was ultimately decided that the Europa League game would be pushed to 6pm on Thursday, October 20.
When will the match be played?
The Premier League are yet to announce a new date for Arsenal vs Manchester City.
They insisted a new date would be 'announced in due course' in a statement confirming the postponement, however.
What we do know is that the clash will take place next year, with the footballing schedule now jam-packed.
The first-ever winter edition of the World Cup, getting underway in Qatar on November 20, has made rearranging the clash a more complex task, with Premier League games running until November 13.
The Premier League will resume on December 26 - just over a week after the World Cup final.
Arsenal and City will likely go toe-to-toe in 2023, however, in what could then resemble a title-decider.
Cityzens17CampusD
0
We are winning it for sure
😂😂😂😂plz stop this mission impossible
Vaecimprst
0
So, you think Arsenal is better than Liverpool?? [Crylaugh][Crylaugh][Crylaugh] just 1 win against Liverpool in Many years. Liverpool had beaten City, even when they were not competing for title. If you seriously think Arsenal will lift this season EPL than you will end up in heart beating. first try to finish top 4
We are winning it for sure
Mencdknpz
0
you people will see it when the day come
Mencdknpz
0
yes oooo we are back again arsenal all the way
Cityzens17CampusD
0
Man City would be having a deep sigh of relief to avoid the all conquering Arsenal now. Arsenal would have routed them badly
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tell me last time when Arsenal beat City??
Cityzens17CampusD
0
They couldn't even beat out of form Liverpool
So, you think Arsenal is better than Liverpool?? [Crylaugh][Crylaugh][Crylaugh] just 1 win against Liverpool in Many years. Liverpool had beaten City, even when they were not competing for title. If you seriously think Arsenal will lift this season EPL than you will end up in heart beating. first try to finish top 4
KingsWantee
0
City is having and will maintain a long era of dominance... 💪💪💪💥🔥💥
Yoodeilnrt
1
we are the gunners forever no matter what
Vaecimprst
0
Very lucky arsenal.. If not they surely will lost to Man city.. Hahaa
They couldn't even beat out of form Liverpool
Vaecimprst
0
It is postponed to when Arsenal will lose form, then Man City will hit them harder
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Liverpool wasn't in form but they beat City
fuybdksyz
3
arsenal for life 🤞🤞
Ghostwriter
0
It will be their best interest to draw that game if the first half is nil nil.
seseimpy
1
I like the last part "toe-to-toe 2023 " Gunners time
zuybmnot
4
man city time is over its now arsenal
ruacdlmos
3
arsenal for life
harrydboss
0
Ok 👌
Draco69
1
Personally I want to see this match. it will teach us one of two things; if Arsenal are to be taken seriously or if They're just blowing smoke.
jizdekrsy
1
Very lucky arsenal.. If not they surely will lost to Man city.. Hahaa
deuadertu
0
no matter what or when they city still to beat them and win the league thats the factos lol 😆 😂 🤣
every one said that about liverpool too
Foyclnpruy
5
Gunners 4 life, we're still waiting for that day. We respect but fear no one, that's the day we will surprise the whole world. I ♥️ Gunners 💪 blood for blood.
boeeikprst
1
They can run but they can't hide anytime are facing it very hot 😄😄
zahdipsuy
0
Man City would be having a deep sigh of relief to avoid the all conquering Arsenal now. Arsenal would have routed them badly
Vubbiklo
2
At least arsenal can take their breath with this good news 😂😂😂
charitywale
5
It is postponed to when Arsenal will lose form, then Man City will hit them harder
flourishdee
2
This would be the most decisive match of all.
Japbckly
1
they would have turn their anger of loosing against liverpool to us thank God
kizabdekoz
3
no matter what or when they city still to beat them and win the league thats the factos lol 😆 😂 🤣