The room for error is slimmer than ever as Arsenal prepare to fight for the Premier League title once again.
There’s a positive in that Arsenal can call themselves contenders for the title, having spent so long away from being real challengers for the top spot.
That being said, there is some pressure on Mikel Arteta to deliver silverware, as Arsenal have missed out on the Premier League title for three consecutive seasons.
The Gunners lost out to Manchester City in 2022/23 and 2023/24, and then, when City dropped off last season, Liverpool were there to step up.
The stakes are, as a result, higher than ever when it comes to Arsenal’s title credentials, but winning the league isn’t an easy challenge to conquer.
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Steve McManaman assesses Arsenal’s Premier League title chances
First and foremost, Arsenal will hope to get three points on the opening day against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Starting the season with a win is essential, particularly with rival clubs also wanting to ensure a fast start.
As well as Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City will also be eyeing the top of the table in May, with predictions already being made about Arsenal’s title chances.
After Arne Slot delivered the league in his debut season at Anfield and then strengthened his squad this summer, many think Liverpool are the strongest contenders.
The latest to make a prediction was Steve McManaman, who told the Daily Mail before the Community Shield clash between Liverpool and Crystal Palace who his favourites to win the league are.
“Liverpool, probably,” McManaman said before naming the one condition needed for Slot’s side to be in the driving seat again.
“They won it last year, and to a certain extent, they’ve strengthened. If everybody stays fit, I think Liverpool.”
Fitness was key to Liverpool winning the league last season, not just in their squad, but to others as well, as Arsenal had a terrible injury record in 2024/25.
Peter Crouch also thinks Liverpool will win the league
McManaman wasn’t alone in his prediction on the Reds.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Peter Crouch also shared his opinion that Liverpool will retain the league title.
If there’s one positive, it’s that, while there is pressure on Arsenal, it appears that the Gunners will be heading into the new season as the underdogs.
With the pressure off, there’s less room for error, but will it be enough to end the wait for Premier League glory?
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