Premier League leaders Manchester City beat Arsenal 2-1 on New Year’s Day, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from midfielder Rodri, as the hosts concluded the game with 10 men after defender Gabriel was sent off.
The Gunners surged high up the pitch, putting away any residual memories of their 5-0 humiliation at the hands of City in August, and took the lead in the 31st minute when Bukayo Saka capped a sweeping play by rifling home Kierney’s ball.
When Granit Xhaka was ruled to have fouled Bernardo Silva in the box, City equalized via Mahrez early in the second half, before Arsenal had Gabriel sent out for his second yellow card two minutes later.
Rodri then scored from close range in second-half stoppage time to give City an 11-point advantage over Chelsea, who face third-placed Liverpool on Sunday, and Arsenal, who are fourth on 35 points.
