Three reasons why October will define Arsenal’s season and the Premier League title race

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Arsenal have a huge month ahead of them as October has now arrived.

Mikel Arteta’s side have made a strong start to the new season, and are level on points with Manchester City in the Premier League. 

However, Arsenal now face what could prove to be a make or break month, as far as their Premier League title ambitions are concerned.

The Gunners will also face important tests in the Champions League.

• READ MORE: Everything to know about the Champions League in 2024/25 from group stage draw date, new format explained, Arsenal’s potential opponents, full schedule and more

Arsenal can lay down Champions League marker vs PSG

Arsenal will get the month underway in a Champions League encounter with PSG this evening. In welcoming one of Europe’s most prestigious sides to the Emirates Stadium, Arteta’s team have the opportunity to make a statement of intent. 

A convincing victory over the French giants would provide a huge confidence boost, and make it clear to the rest of the continent that the North London club mean business. What’s more, Arteta has a personal connection to PSG from his playing days, and will be keen to get one over on his former club.

Mikel Arteta can send message to Liverpool

Towards the end of the month, Arsenal will host Liverpool in a Premier League clash. As things stand now, the Reds are sitting at the top of the table.

Whilst it is still too early in the season for that to mean a great deal, the Merseyside outfit will be harbouring a growing belief that they can seriously compete with Arsenal and Manchester City in the title race this season.

Certainly, a defeat against Liverpool would dent the Gunners’ own title credentials. Arsenal need to produce a performance and result that makes it clear that Liverpool still have some way to go in order to catch up with themselves and Manchester City.

Chance to gain advantage over Manchester City in title race

Meanwhile, Manchester City have their own issues to contend with. Whilst Roy Keane still believes Manchester City will retain their Premier League crown this season, despite the loss of Rodri to a long-term injury, the midfielder’s absence still represents a serious blow. 

Kevin de Bruyne is also currently sidelined, meaning Pep Guardiola is having to cope without two of his key players. This could lead to the Cityzens dropping points in October, as they did against Newcastle United last time out. 

Therefore, Arsenal cannot afford any slip ups against the likes of Bournemouth and Southampton, as now is the time for them to try to build up what could ultimately prove a crucial cushion of points ahead of Manchester City.