'Arsenal will win it by a street' - Gary Neville dismisses Liverpool and Man City title hopes after slow start
Arsenal dominate as rivals stumble
The new Premier League season began with Arsenal securing a routine 3-0 victory over newly-promoted Coventry City on Friday night. Meanwhile, their primary title challengers faced difficulties on Sunday. Manchester City required two late goals to overcome Bournemouth, and Liverpool salvaged a point with a last-minute penalty against Newcastle United.
Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, Neville claimed that these opening fixtures have already set the tone for the title race. He observed that while Arsenal looked formidable, both Manchester City and Liverpool showed signs of vulnerability that could hinder their chances of challenging for the title.
Neville backs comfortable title defence
Neville was emphatic in his assessment of the title race, insisting that Arsenal have a significant advantage over the rest of the league. He highlighted the chaotic nature of the first set of fixtures as evidence that other top teams are currently in transition.
"Last week when we were previewing the season all I kept thinking was this is going to be the most unpredictable season and it’s going to be intriguing," Neville said.
"We’ve got new managers, lots of new players and so much change at the top. Arsenal should win this league by a street. We’ve seen Tottenham get beaten, Man United lose, Liverpool nearly lose, Man City scrambling for a win at home… The unpredictable nature we thought we’d see at the top we have seen on this opening weekend. It’s played out pretty much how I thought it would do."
Tactical questions surround challengers
Neville also raised tactical concerns regarding both Manchester City and Liverpool. He noted that Enzo Maresca deployed an unusual formation against Bournemouth, which left Manchester City looking unbalanced despite their eventual win. As for Liverpool, Neville believes they are far from being a complete side. "They’re nowhere near a title-winning team I don’t think," he added.
He pointed out that their current midfield structure leaves them vulnerable to counter-attacks, and he placed immediate pressure on their new signings. "The other big thing for Liverpool is they’ve got Isak and Wirtz who are going to have to start playing soon. We’ve been kind on them two. They need to start delivering and they need to improve."
What next for the title contenders?
Arsenal will look to build on their strong start and assert early dominance in the Premier League in their upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, Manchester City and Liverpool have significant tactical issues to resolve on the training ground. Both clubs must quickly find their rhythm and integrate their new key players if they are to prevent Arsenal from running away with the title in the coming weeks.
