Ni Arsenal Vs Man City leo

Arsène Wenger admits the team he fields against Manchester City on Saturday will be "close" to the one he selects for the start of the Premier League season.

The Arsenal manager has experimented with a number of different sides during the Asia Tour and in the Emirates Cup.

But with the opening game against Aston Villa just over a week away, the Frenchman intends to select a strong team in Helsinki on Saturday.

It's a good opportunity to play against Man City. What is important is to have a good competition level one week before the season starts

“It is not necessarily [the team that will face Villa] because players like Rosicky are not here and one or two players have little muscular problems - but it will be close,” Wenger said.

“I consider that I have 16 regular players and no matter who starts or does not [against City], they will be considered for a start against Aston Villa.

“For us it's a good opportunity to play against Man City. What is important is to have a good competition level one week before the season starts.

“Ideally, it's always better not to travel too much but we travelled in fantastic conditions and we cannot complain. We are happy to come to Helsinki and play this kind of game.”

Saturday’s opponents have bolstered their squad since the end of last season but Wenger insists he is looking forward to facing Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

“It's hard because they buy good players of course, but it's exciting and stimulating as well," he said. 

"We have a different philosophy and it's an interesting way for neutral people to see how we compare.

"The fact the stadium is sold out is very good news, it shows how popular the Premier Legaue is. That is fantastic because it will add something to the game."