Michael Owen still believes that Manchester City will leapfrog Arsenal to win the Premier League title this season.
Assessing both sides’ title challenges so far
While the league table certainly does not lie by pointing out that the Gunners are the best team in the country, currently boasting a five-point lead over their title rivals, the eye-test emphasizes the very same point.
Despite an Erling Haaland-inspired City side being the highest scorers in the division, Mikel Arteta’s side have looked the more convincing out of both sides in terms of their all-round displays this term.
In games against Crystal Palace, Newcastle United and Fulham, the Sky Blues have been far from their fluid best, relying on Haaland’s individual brilliance to save their blushes.
While Arsenal have been on the ropes a handful of times as well, the manner of their victories have seemed a lot more decisive in comparison.
Overall as well, the North Londoners look like the most balanced outfit in all departments, which has clearly been evident in their all-round performances this season.
Owen’s view on Arsenal’s title hopes
While acknowledging the fact that Mikel Arteta’s side have come leaps and bounds, Michael Owen still reckons Manchester City will inevitability become Premier League champions.
“They’re [Arsenal] sitting pretty at the top, aren’t they? A lot of people are thinking Arsenal are the real deal now”, he told Premier League Productions (14/10/22).
The ex-Liverpool striker continued, “It’s crept up on us. They have been steadily improving over the last few years. But there’s been a massive improvement for Arsenal this season. “
“I still think that Manchester City are the best team, I still think that they should be favourites. But them losing yesterday [against Brentford] has all of a sudden given a few teams that might have thought they’re out of it a little gee up maybe.”
It’s safe to say a majority of fans and pundits will echo Owen’s views, while admitting that Arsenal are ready to mount a serious title challenge.
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