Much of the pre-match build up centred on a selection of City fans who had boycotted their side's crucial clash against the Gunners after being quoted £62 by Arsenal to purchase tickets for seats behind one of the goals.
Even the City fans who did make the journey to London voiced their discontent by holding up banners criticising both Arsenal and the football authorities as a whole for the perceived ever-increasing rise of prices of football tickets.
Indeed, it appears that linesman John Brooks had similar thoughts on the issue, after being heard appearing to tell Lescott after the final whistle: "They've paid £62 over there go and say hello."
Tevez Talks Set To Go Ahead
Roberto Mancini expects discussions over a possible new contract for striker Carlos Tevez to be held in due course.
The Argentinian's current deal expires in the summer of 2014 and Mancini feels there is plenty of time to consider what might happen beyond that term.
Former Manchester United star Tevez said in a TV interview last August he was happy to remain at the Etihad Stadium until the end of his contract and would even consider extending his stay.
He added that the problems of last season, when he was embroiled in an infamous dispute with the club, were firmly in the past and no longer an issue.
Despite that, there has been speculation as to what might happen when his deal ends.
Mancini said: "I don't know what Carlos thinks about this. We have another 18 months and I think we have the time to talk with him about this.
"When Carlos takes his decision, he will talk with us."
City would risk losing Tevez for a reduced fee, or even for nothing, if his contract was allowed to run down.
Tevez, 28, has restored his eminent position in Mancini's squad since returning from an unauthorised three-month break in Argentina during the height of his notorious stand-off with City.
He played a key role in last season's Barclays Premier League title run-in and has scored nine goals this term.
Mancini was asked whether a one-year extension could be an option for Tevez, as that would prevent his value decreasing.
Speaking at a press conference to preview this weekend's game at Arsenal, Mancini said: "Yes, this could be because Carlos is 28 and he has other years to play. I think that this could be an option."
Mancini has been impressed with Tevez's attitude in training and during games and feels he is a good role model for the unpredictable Mario Balotelli.
Mancini said: "His behaviour is very good, he works very well. He is an important player because he has experience in this moment and also now he can help Mario which is important."
Tevez scored in last weekend's FA Cup third-round win over Watford at the Etihad Stadium, his first goal in seven appearances.
Tevez later said the strikers had been motivated by Mancini's claims he was "very close" to signing Robin van Persie last summer and that the prolific Dutchman was now the difference between City and United.
PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES:
Wednesday 16th January 2013
Chelsea V Southampton 19:45
Saturday 19th January 2013
Liverpool V Norwich 15:00
Man City V Fulham 15:00
Newcastle V Reading 15:00
Swansea V Stoke 15:00
Wigan V Sunderland 15:00
West Brom V Aston Villa 17:30
Sunday 20th January 2013
Chelsea V Arsenal 13:30
Tottenham V Man Utd 16:00
Monday 21st January 2013
Southampton V Everton 20:00
Wednesday 23rd January 2013
Arsenal V West Ham 19:45