Before the Premier League season got underway, everyone was tipping it to again be a two-horse race for the title between Manchester City and Liverpool. However, at the time of writing, it’s Arsenal who leads the way, with City a couple of points behind in second. But will Arsenal surprise everyone and lift the Premier League trophy?
Since Mikel Arteta took over at the Emirates in late 2019, it’s fair to say there have been plenty of ups and downs. But that’s been par for the course with the Gunners for a number of years. Spaniard Arteta, who played for and captained Arsenal during his playing days, has always had a vision to get the North London outfit back in the big time, but even he may be surprised to hear sports betting operators like bwin are offering odds on Arsenal as second-favourites to be crowned champions.
It shouldn’t really be too much of a surprise to learn that Arsenal are second favourites behind defending champions City to win the Premier League title when you consider that this season they’ve played twelve, won ten, drawn one and lost one. It’s a fantastic record, and it’s one the Gunners are confident of maintaining moving forward. And when disappointments occur, as they have twice in the league this season, Arteta’s men immediately bounce back convincingly. Last time out, they beat Nottingham Forest 5-0 to make amends for the disappointing 1-1 draw at Southampton the game before, for example.
One of the key reasons why you should expect Arsenal to be there or thereabouts come the end of the current campaign is that Arteta, assisted by director of football Edu, also a former Arsenal player, has put together a squad full of youthful energy, with players hungry for success, and that’s all wrapped up with a few more experienced pros. Arsenal have got the balance just right, with the likes of Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White, and Martin Odegaard balanced off by older heads such as Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey.
This current Arsenal squad is also blessed with a number of talents that have been at Arsenal and worked their way through the academy system, or they've joined the club at a young age. Players like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe know what it means to play for the club, and they harness the values of Arsenal. They help to set the tone for those who are new to the club, which has also been crucial.
Right now, Arsenal are going great guns. And you can see them continuing in their current vein of form. But, if injuries were to hit key men, then they may have some problems in maintaining their levels. So, it makes the next transfer window imperative. The Gunners have recruited well, and by adding one or two more quality players, they’d have the strength in depth to cope with anything, aiding them in the title race further.
