Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will not hold a traditional pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s Premier League showdown against Manchester City this weekend, according to recent reports.

The decision comes as a result of a congested schedule, with the Gunners set to play in the UEFA Champions League just days before their crucial Premier League clash.

Arsenal will first travel to Italy to face Atalanta, last season's Europa League winners, in their Champions League opener.

Following the match, Arteta's side will return to London in the early hours of Friday morning, leaving little time to face the usual pre-match press obligations.

Traditionally, managers host a press conference the day before each Premier League fixture, but due to time constraints, Arsenal have opted to skip this routine event.

Although the official press conference has been canceled, Arteta is expected to address the media after the Champions League tie against Atalanta, providing insights on both the European match and the upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City.

This could be the only opportunity for reporters to pose questions to the Arsenal boss before his team heads to the Etihad Stadium.

The highly-anticipated fixture between Arsenal and Manchester City is shaping up to be a key moment in the Premier League title race.

Both teams are in excellent form, with Pep Guardiola’s side sitting at the top of the table after winning all four of their opening matches, while Arsenal are just two points behind them.

This season marks the third consecutive year that the two sides are expected to compete closely for the title.

Hence with the stakes high and both teams well in form, the clash at the Etihad is set to be a thrilling encounter.