Soccer-Man City clash will not determine Arsenal's season, says Arteta

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - FA Cup - Fourth Round - Manchester City v Arsenal - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - January 27, 2023 Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola gesture REUTERS/Molly Darlington

LONDON (Reuters) - The much-anticipated top-of-the-table Premier League clash between Arsenal and Manchester City will be crucial for the north London club but it will not determine their season, manager Mikel Arteta said on Tuesday.

Arsenal have lost their grip on the title race after securing draws in their last three games, which has left them only five points above reigning champions City, having played two more games than Pep Guardiola's side.