Premier League: Man City 1-0 Arsenal - Sterling return Citizens to winning ways

Raheem Sterling netted the only goal as Manchester City edged past Arsenal in their Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Raheem Sterling (right) celebrates goal for Man City with teammate Phil Foden (left) against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. Photo: Manchester City

The English winger scored the rebound after Phil Foden's shot was saved in the 23rd minute.

With Kevin de Bruyne and Fernandinho missing due to injury, Sterling wore the armband, given by Manager Pep Guardiola.

Both Nicolas Pepe and David Luiz off target with free-kicks in good positions after the break.

Arsenal had series of chances to level up against their hosts but City goalie Ederson made three superb saves in the first 45 minutes.

This victory returned Pep Guardiola's side to winning ways after earning just one point from their last two games.

Man City Boss Pep Guardiola post-match words - "It was an important victory" ⬇

PEP 💬 It was an important victory. The clean sheet was important. They fought and had the desire to win and try to do it.

We knew it would be a tight game, a difficult one, but for us winning games is important for the confidence and mentality.

🔷 #ManCity pic.twitter.com/38TKN5el9d

— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 17, 2020

They clinched all three pints at home even with the absence of Belgian pro midfielder Kevin de Bruyne.

Argentine striker returned to action against the Gunners after suffering a knee injury which kept him away for months.

Sergio Aguero - "Great to be back" ⬇

Feliz de volver a jugar! // Great to be back 🤟🏽💪🏽 #ManCity pic.twitter.com/VC4xpgFxGf

— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) October 17, 2020

Manchester City climbed to ninth with seven points from four games while Arsenal dropped to fifth with nine points from five games.