Arsenal goalkeeper Vito Mannone has urged his teammates to take control of the match when they face Manchester City at the weekend.

The Gunners travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday to face the Premier League champions in their first big test of the season.

Many have pointed to the game as an indicator of Arsenal's title chances this year, and Mannone has admitted that it will be a difficult game.

"It is a tough test," he said. "I thought we were in a good state at Liverpool because we went to a big game in a big stadium and from there we really started our season.

"City are champions so we know we have to go there and prepare properly. We must dictate the game because they are a great team and it will be a top challenge."

Arsenal are currently one place above City in the Premier League table, sitting in third place.