Manchester City vs Arsenal Player Ratings: Olivier Giroud and Aaron Ramsey back in form

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James Benge8 May 2016

Arsenal after twice came from behind to secure a crucial 2-2 draw away to Manchester City that all but secures their participation in next season’s Champions League.

The draw leaves the Gunners needing just a point at home to Aston Villa on the season’s final day to ensure they finish third, barring a huge goal difference swing in favour of Manchester United, and guarantee their participation in the group stages.

City started brightly, pining their visitors back in the area and probing down the right flank. It was from that area that the opener came after eight minutes, Fernandinho cushioning down a header inside the box for Sergio Aguero to lash home.

It seemed that Arsenal were set for a trying day in the heat of the Etihad but Giroud, whose continued inclusion nearly four months on from his last Premier League goal was something of a surprise, showed fine work to lose Elaquim Mangala at a corner to head home.

Arsenal did well to reach the break level, looking to hit City on the counter where possible but mostly being forced to cede territory and possession by their hosts. Their resistance did not last the second period though, when the Gunners’ defence backed off Kevin De Bruyne as he shot low past Petr Cech.

Once more the visitors seemed to be on course for a heavy defeat but, after holding firm under further pressure, Arsenal drew level again with Giroud playing a key role. It was the Frenchman’s lay-off that teed up Alexis Sanchez to drive low past Joe Hart.

Arsene Wenger seemed happy to take the draw, which means Arsenal need just a point against Aston Villa on the final day to guarantee third. The introduction of Francis Coquelin set out his plan to defy City, who now need a favour from West Ham on Tuesday for their Champions League participation to remain in their own hands.

But who stood out for Arsenal? Scroll through the gallery above to find out...

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