Arsenal latest: Ex-Man City star told to snub transfer as Champions League verdict given

Arsenal's season and summer could potentially be defined in their blockbuster bout away to Manchester City

Arsenal are preparing for what could be their most significant fixture in over two decades as they face Manchester City on Sunday.

With a six-point cushion over Pep Guardiola's side - who possess a game in hand - victory at the Etihad Stadium would not only extend Mikel Arteta's advantage considerably but deliver a substantial psychological boost heading into the campaign's final month.

An EFL Cup final loss and an unexpected FA Cup exit had Arsenal supporters fearing their season might unravel, but a 1-0 aggregate triumph over Sporting CP to reach the Champions League semi-finals has rekindled optimism that silverware remains within reach.

Before the blockbuster encounter in Manchester, we examine a former Premier League-winning manager dismissing the Gunners' credentials, alongside a former Manchester City player being advised against a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.

Ancelotti names UCL favourite

Unbeaten in Europe's elite competition this campaign, Arsenal have reached the semi-finals in consecutive seasons for only the second time in 140 years. Nevertheless, their commanding European displays haven't prevented Carlo Ancelotti - a five-time champion of the tournament - from ruling them out as prospective winners.

When questioned about the nature of the competition, the former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager told Il Giornale: "The Champions League is an open tournament that leaves great teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester City on the sidelines, but it's still a tournament where you can grow."

When pressed to select his preferred choice from the remaining four sides, he responded: "I say Paris Saint-Germain." Having previously taken charge of the current trophy holders between 2011 and 2013, the Brazil manager is backing his former club to become the first side since Real Madrid to claim the competition in back-to-back campaigns.

Alvarez told to snub Arsenal

Despite Viktor Gyokeres' arrival last summer, speculation surrounding Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez and a potential switch to Arsenal continues to persist. With 18 goals in all competitions this term, the Argentina international has consistently been linked with a departure from the Spanish heavyweights, with the Gunners reportedly preparing an £86million bid for his services.

Alvarez - who enjoyed a two-year spell at Manchester City - has received advice from fellow countryman Sergio Aguero that should he contemplate leaving Diego Simeone's outfit, he ought to prioritise Barcelona ahead of Arsenal. Speaking to Stake, the City legend stated: "Julian would be a good signing for any team today.

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"For Barca obviously everything depends on whether he feels comfortable. There is the player side and the club side. If things go well he'll be a champion of the Champions League one day. It's very difficult for the player there, very complicated.

"But if Barca are looking at him and he is doing well, he fits perfectly. He loves football and has something not many strikers have: a very dedicated defensive side. Julian is a very complete player."