City remain just six points adrift of Arsenal having played a game fewer which puts all the pressure on to this week’s clash as manager Pep Guardiola aims to close the gap to just three points.
Given the tightness of the situation at the head of the standings, both Guardiola and Arteta will be feeling the pressure heading into the game at the Etihad which should be filled with drama.
Now, speaking to Betfair, Shearer has highlighted the importance of the game which he says could decide the title in the final stage of the campaign.
“The whole season effectively comes down to this game. I think it's huge and the biggest game of the season for both clubs. Confidence and momentum is such a big thing, which is why I'm going to say a Man City home win. I think the belief they'll get from beating Arsenal in the Carabao Cup and the performances of the last couple of weeks.
“I think a draw would be a good result for Arsenal, but I think City might have too much for them. Arteta knows there's been no panic from Pep, has there? It's always been pretty consistent, and they always cone good at this time of the year, and it looks as if they are.
“They've won their first trophy and could even end up getting the treble. I just think with the momentum that they've got and the confidence that they've got, I think they might have too much. It'd be really interesting to see what Arsenal do, whether they sort of sit back or try to take the game to City, but I think City might just have too much for them.”
After Arsenal's slip-up at home to Bournemouth last weekend and followed that result with a 0-0 draw against Sporting, City will be filled with confidence as they attempt to kick the Gunners off their perch.