Arsenal or Man City? Paul Merson says £20m signing could decide title race | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Manchester City closed the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal, who are now just five points clear following two draws against Brentford and Wolves. City’s late goals against Liverpool put pressure on Arsenal ahead of their north London derby against Tottenham, while City’s Marc Guehi impressed since his £20m signing from Crystal Palace.
Paul Merson fears for Arsenal’s title charge
Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson expressed concerns over the club’s Premier League title aspirations following a disappointing recent run. He noted that Manchester City is now in a position to challenge effectively for the title after recent slips from Arsenal, particularly after their draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday night.
Merson indicated that the situation has dramatically shifted, with Arsenal’s lead in the title race reduced to just five points ahead of their crucial north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday. According to Merson, Manchester City now have the title race firmly in their hands, stating, “If they win every game from now, they win the league title.”
Merson highlights recent performances
Arsenal’s recent form has raised eyebrows, with a draw against Brentford and a troubling collapse from a two-goal lead against Wolves. Merson told Sportskeeda, “The way everything is playing out in front of us, it’s not looking good for Arsenal. Imagine leading 2-0 and then conceding a draw against Wolves, that is worrying.” He pointed out that if Newcastle United manages to win against Manchester City on Saturday, it could alter the dynamics of the title race, although he remains sceptical about that outcome.
Manchester City prepares to close the gap
Merson also commented on how Manchester City, under manager Pep Guardiola, approaches their upcoming fixture against Newcastle. He believes that City will put significant pressure on Arsenal, especially if they secure a win at the Etihad Stadium. “This is not Pep Guardiola’s best Manchester City side but I expect them to beat Newcastle,” he noted, while also mentioning the impact of new signing Marc Guehi.
With Arsenal aiming to lift their first Premier League trophy since 2004, the pressure continues to mount as City seeks to further solidify their position, having won six of the previous eight titles.