The Gunners skipper admits with the talent on show and the fact that both teams are desperate for three points, it could prove to be an exciting match-up.

The Dutchman, who is currently in a rich vein of form, having fired 54 goals since the start of 2011, is hopeful the Gunners can hold off the threat of North London rivals Tottenham for third position.

And with Arsene Wenger's side looking to bounce back from last weekend's shock defeat to QPR after a run of seven consecutive wins, the 28-year-old is sure that Arsenal will be fully motivated.

"You feel with City at the moment they could either go out and score none or three or five, you just don't know," Van Persie told the club's official website.

"It makes it interesting as a fan because we can score five too, we've shown that already this season, against big teams. They can do it as well, so it might be 5-5, you never know!

"I'm confident that we can get a good result - we have to get three points, a draw is not that good for either of us. So it should be a great game.

"We are well prepared, because you have to know your stuff about the opposition, but in the end it's about your own performance that will hopefully make the difference."