In the aftermath of their last-gasp 2-2 draw on Sunday, a host of Manchester City players came forth to bemoan Arsenal's gamesmanship, cynicism and willingness to settle for a point. To John Stones, it was "dirty.

What is the appropriate response to the prospect of playing for 55 minutes against Manchester City, at the Etihad Stadium, with 10 men? In the eyes of Pep Guardiola’s players, it seems, the dignified approach would be to roll over and simply wait for the thrashing to begin.

Arsenal has gotten under Manchester City's skin in what has fast become the new big rivalry in English soccer.