Manchester City struck a psychological blow in their title battle with Arsenal last night - before a ball had even been kicked.
By the side of the pitch, where Mikel Arteta's side were warming up, sat the Premier League trophy, adorned with sky blue ribbons.
It was a tangible reminder to the Gunners that the trophy remains the property of Pep Guardiola's side – who then showed they are in no mood to relinquish it. City may have won four of the last five league titles, but Guardiola recognised the role of the crowd last night, hence his rallying in the lead-up to the game.
