Roy Keane has boldly declared Arsenal the “red-hot favorites” to finally break their two-decade Premier League title drought, a stunning assessment given the relentless challenge posed by Manchester City.
Despite a recent stalemate against Liverpool that narrowed the gap to six points, Keane believes Arsenal’s position after 21 games is remarkably strong. He emphasized the significance of maintaining this lead, acknowledging the looming threats from both City and Aston Villa.
The Gunners have become accustomed to heartbreak, finishing as runners-up for the past three seasons, consistently falling short against Pep Guardiola’s dominant City. This history adds a layer of tension to the current campaign, fueling the desire for a triumphant finish.
Keane, a notoriously critical observer, pointed to Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, as someone who must be quietly satisfied with the current situation. The pressure is immense, but the opportunity is undeniable.
However, Keane didn’t shy away from identifying areas for improvement within the Arsenal squad. He singled out Declan Rice for “sloppy” play and questioned the readiness of young Myles Lewis-Skelly, suggesting a lack of conviction in their performance against Liverpool.
The January transfer window looms large, with City already making moves to bolster their squad. The addition of Antoine Semenyo and pursuit of Marc Guehi signal their intent to remain at the pinnacle of English football.
Keane urged Arsenal to seize the moment, to “flex their muscles” and send a clear message to their rivals. He believes they have the potential to elevate their game and truly contend for the championship.
The upcoming fixture against Manchester City will be pivotal, a clash that could define the entire season. The pressure will be immense, the stakes incredibly high, and the outcome will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the title race.
This season feels different for Arsenal, a team finally poised to challenge City’s sustained dominance. Keane’s assessment, while direct, reflects a growing belief that this could finally be their year.
