Gerrard names three teams that can rival Arsenal for Premier League title
The Liverpool icon backed Arteta's side to retain the crown, but insisted three other clubs are still in the hunt.
Steven Gerrard has declared Arsenal will retain the Premier League title, but warned that three other clubs are poised to mount a serious challenge. According to Metro [1], the Liverpool legend believes Manchester City, the Reds themselves, and Chelsea will eventually "pull away" from the rest of the pack to rival the Gunners.
Gerrard’s comments follow Arsenal’s hard-fought 1-0 victory at Anfield on Sunday, where Kai Havertz’s first-half strike secured three crucial points. The Mirror reported [2] that the win moved Mikel Arteta’s side three points clear of Manchester City at the summit, while Liverpool remained fifth after their defeat.
Speaking on The Overlap, Gerrard praised the resilience shown by his former rivals. "That's how you win leagues, going to places like Liverpool, being strong, sticking together, and putting in a different type of performance," he said. He noted that such gritty displays, rather than four-goal thrashings, would define the champions come May.
Despite his endorsement of Arsenal’s credentials, Gerrard identified the three clubs he believes possess the squad depth to compete over 38 games. He specifically highlighted the need for Liverpool to address their current deficit, noting they are nine points behind the leaders. "Liverpool have got work to do if they want to challenge," Gerrard stated, as cited by Metro [1].
He also addressed the surprise rise of Brighton, who currently sit third after defeating Manchester City. While Gerrard labelled Fabian Hurzeler’s side as the most dangerous team to play against due to their fearless approach, he predicted they would fall out of the title race. "I’m going to put my neck on the line and say that I think they will fall away from that," Gerrard explained, though he confirmed they are top-four contenders.
The narrative of the title race has shifted dramatically since the previous international break. Arsenal had suffered a defeat to Brighton in September, but have since rebounded with four consecutive league wins. Meanwhile, City suffered a shocking home loss to Brighton, handing Arsenal the initiative. Gerrard acknowledged that while Brighton are pushing for Champions League spots, the sheer consistency required to win the league favours the deeper squads of City, Liverpool, and Chelsea.
As the Premier League heads into the November international break, the pressure mounts. Arsenal face Hull City next, while Liverpool travel to Crystal Palace and City host Nottingham Forest. For Gerrard, the Anfield result was a statement of intent, but the long road ahead will test the resolve of every challenger.
Sources
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