A comprehensive statistical analysis of the 2024/25 Premier League season, exploring how Arsenal achieved their best finish against City in over 15 years
For the first time since the 2008-09 season, Arsenal finished above Manchester City in the Premier League standings
This comprehensive analysis examines the key statistical factors that enabled Arsenal's resurgence against their dominant rivals
Arsenal's defensive superiority - 19% fewer goals conceded than City
Arsenal's younger squad provided energy and consistency throughout
Bukayo Saka's assists per 90 - highest in either squad
City scored more but Arsenal's balanced approach proved more effective
Arsenal conceded 8 fewer goals than City (34 vs 42), demonstrating superior defensive structure and consistency. This 19% improvement in defensive solidity proved crucial in tight matches throughout the season.
While City relied heavily on individual brilliance, Arsenal's creativity came from multiple sources. Bukayo Saka (0.52 assists/90), Leandro Trossard (0.25), and Gabriel Martinelli (0.16) all provided consistent creative output.
Arsenal successfully integrated young talent like Saka (22) and Martinelli (23) as key starters, while City's youth played more limited roles. This provided Arsenal with sustained energy levels throughout the demanding season.
Arsenal's key players maintained better fitness and availability. Saka, Martinelli, and Trossard combined for over 6,500 minutes, providing consistent attacking threats when City struggled with injuries.
Arsenal achieved better balance between attack and defense. While City's forwards excelled individually (Haaland 0.72 goals/90), Arsenal's team-oriented approach created a more sustainable winning formula.
City had higher individual peaks (Haaland's 22 goals, McAtee's 0.77 goals/90), but Arsenal's consistent performers across all positions delivered week after week, proving that reliability trumps occasional brilliance.