Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville believes the Premier League title race now firmly favours Arsenal, following a weekend in which their closest rivals dropped crucial points.
The Gunners, unbeaten since August, recorded a fourth consecutive league win, opening up a four-point gap at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea all stumbled, leaving Bournemouth as Arsenal’s nearest challenger in the standings.
Neville praised Mikel Arteta’s tactical blueprint, describing Arsenal as a team built on discipline, efficiency and consistency rather than flair. He argued that while the north London side may not always dazzle, their ability to grind out results sets them apart in a season marked by inconsistency from their rivals.
According to the Sky Sports pundit, Arsenal’s steady performances and composure under pressure could finally propel them to the title, restoring their status as England’s best team after several near misses in recent campaigns.
He said (via Sky Sports), “This has got to be their year,” “I’ve had Arsenal to win the league the last three years—now four.
“They aren’t miles better than last year but are repeating levels of consistency, and that’s all they are going to have to do this year to win the league. They aren’t going to have to get 100 points, or even 90.
“High 80s will win the title—they can do that.”
“Arsenal are reliable; you can trust them. They don’t concede goals,” Neville added. “They don’t have a sensational forward, but they’ve got a battering ram who is as honest as the day is long, and that can work for them.
“This is your title, Arsenal. I’ve never really felt that sure before; it’s so early in the season, but it really is. That’s not being overconfident or placing pressure; they must feel it themselves. This is the moment Arsenal can get back on top.
“The chance is there for them; they have to take it.” The former Manchester United player added.
