The Premier League title race is already taking shape, and seasoned football minds are weighing in on the contenders. Paul Scholes, a legend of the game, currently gives Manchester City a slight advantage despite Arsenal holding a four-point lead.
Scholes’ assessment isn’t about current standings, but rather a calculation of experience. He believes City’s squad possesses a championship pedigree that Arsenal, still building towards consistent dominance, hasn’t yet fully cultivated. That proven ability to navigate pressure-cooker situations could be the deciding factor.
The picture looks considerably bleaker for Liverpool, according to former striker Robbie Fowler. Their recent defeat against Manchester City at the Etihad has left them eight points adrift of Arsenal, a gap Fowler considers almost insurmountable.
Fowler acknowledges the outward appearance of continued ambition from the Liverpool camp, but stresses the harsh reality of the Premier League. Historically, very few teams have overcome a record of six or seven defeats to lift the trophy.
Liverpool’s path to the title now demands near perfection. Draws are no longer acceptable; they need to win almost every remaining fixture. Fowler suggests that while publicly the team will maintain a fighting spirit, the internal assessment is likely more pragmatic.
Scholes echoed this sentiment, stating that before witnessing City’s dominant performance against Liverpool, he still believed a title defense was within reach. However, the manner of the defeat significantly altered his perspective, reinforcing his belief in City’s overall strength.
Fowler cautioned against overreacting to Liverpool’s recent wins, pointing out that even victories haven’t consistently showcased dominant form. A single positive result doesn’t erase underlying issues or guarantee sustained success.