Manchester City won the FA Cup battle with Premier League title rivals Arsenal as Nathan Ake's goal gave them a narrow fourth-round victory at Etihad Stadium.

The Gunners have established an impressive lead in the league but it was City who shaded a tight contest thanks to Ake's precise 64th-minute finish after good work from Jack Grealish.

Arsenal had chances of their own, especially in the first half when City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, deputising for Ederson, saved well from Takehiro Tomiyasu and new signing Leandro Trossard.

City manager Pep Guardiola later said: “We were definitely better in the second half. Arsenal have taken a step forward. It was a tight game and you realise how good a side they are. I did not expect the approach from them – man-to man – it was difficult to build up but we beat the team at the top of the league and are in the next round.

“What a season he [Nathan Ake] is playing. He controlled one of the toughest opponents in the Premier League because Saka is in an incredible moment.

"He is really good in the duels in the box, defending the far post and set pieces is an extra bonus. He is an exceptional guy, there was a period where he didn't play and he never complained once."