MANCHESTER, United Kingdom (AFP) - Manchester City have a golden opportunity to prove their credentials as contenders for the Premier League on Sunday when they host title rivals Arsenal.
For a brief period this week it appeared Wayne Rooney was willing to consider joining City after the Manchester United striker signalled his intention to leave Old Trafford.
City fans were drooling at the prospect of signing their rivals' star player but the saga came to an abrupt conclusion when Rooney opted to sign a few five-year contract with United.
Even without Rooney, City should be title challengers this term as Roberto Mancini's side are currently just two points behind leaders Chelsea, who face Wolver 24 hours before Arsenal visit Eastlands.
Depending on the outcome of events at Stamford Bridge, Mancini's team will take on Arsene Wenger's side knowing victory could take them top or, at the very least, open up a six point gap between themselves and the Gunners.
