Manuel Akanji, the Manchester City defender, has expressed his dissatisfaction with Arsenal following their 2-2 draw in a match that could have a significant impact on the season.

On Sunday afternoon, the Gunners were welcomed to the Etihad Stadium by Premier League champions City in a highly anticipated match that could potentially determine the winner of the title this season.

The final scoreline was 2-2 after City managed to find an equaliser in the eighth minute of injury time, resulting in a draw for both teams after an ill-tempered clash that was rife with controversy.

Arsenal’s tactics and the outcome of the match were the subject of criticism from several Man City players in the aftermath of the match. Akanji has now expressed his opinion on the London club’s performance.

“That is the object of their search.” After the contest, the 29-year-old stated, “They always seek drama when we play against them.”

“It was successful for them; therefore, they should be satisfied with the single point.” We are not; we attempted to obtain a greater quantity, but that is the amount that they are satisfied with. Ultimately, we remain the league’s leaders. We have yet to suffer a defeat. We made an effort, particularly in the second half when we had one man advantage, but it is challenging to defend with ten players in their own box.

John Stones, a fellow defender who scored the critical equaliser for City, accused Arsenal of employing “clever and dirty” tactics to frustrate their opponents and disrupt their cadence throughout the match.

Akanji responded, “I do not believe there are many individuals who are more proficient than them,” when asked if he concurred. However, we have consistently emerged victorious, and I anticipate that this year will be no exception.

“I’s still early in the season, I think again, we’re going to win the league again, and we don’t focus too much on Arsenal.”

The Swiss defender also criticised referee Michael Oliver, claiming that he did not adequately manage Arsenal’s efforts to squander time after they took the lead through Gabriel late in the first half.

“We are unable to manage this due to the time waste.” He stated that the referee is responsible for making the decision.

“That is the outcome they are seeking [to disrupt the game]. We must defend ourselves, as they were on the ground for each free kick and duel that was given.” Players ascend from the floor, sprint back, and then descend once more.

“I mean, there is nothing we can do about it.” Ultimately, the referee is responsible for maintaining control throughout the entire season.