Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has declared that only two clubs—Arsenal and Manchester City—are genuine contenders for the Premier League title this season. Speaking via BestBettingSites.co.uk, Smith backed his former club to retain the crown, citing City's managerial transition and key player departures as factors that could tilt the race in Arsenal's favor.
Arsenal's Title Defence and Summer Signings
After three consecutive second-place finishes, Mikel Arteta guided Arsenal to their first league title in 22 years last season. The Gunners have strengthened further this summer, with early arrivals Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier supplemented by the marquee signing of Bruno Guimaraes. Arsenal are still looking to add depth in defence and wide forward areas before the transfer deadline.
Smith, who won two league titles with Arsenal, believes the squad is well-equipped to go again. 'I've got to go for Arsenal winning it again; let's hope,' he added, expressing confidence that Arteta's side can build on their success.
Manchester City's Transition and Key Departures
City, under new manager Enzo Maresca, face a period of upheaval. The club has seen stalwarts such as John Stones, Bernardo Silva, and Nathan Ake leave this summer, while World Cup winner Rodri is poised to join Barcelona. These departures, combined with the departure of Pep Guardiola, have raised questions about City's ability to challenge.
Smith acknowledged the uncertainty: 'Obviously, they have a new manager, so that puts a little question mark in there about how Maresca can settle with his players, but I still see them being the only challenger. There's a whole host of others just below that, but I'd say it's [between Arsenal and] City at the moment.'
Rivals Face Managerial Changes
Arsenal's other rivals have also undergone significant changes. Enzo Maresca is back at Manchester City, while Andoni Iraola and Xabi Alonso have taken charge at Liverpool and Chelsea respectively after poor domestic campaigns. Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season at Manchester United, having arrived midway through last season.
Smith's predicted top-six for the season is: Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Aston Villa. He believes United will improve under Carrick, saying, 'Carrick is getting his feet under the table, so maybe Man United third, Liverpool fourth, and Chelsea perhaps having a much better season than they did last time under Alonso. They have made some good signings, so I'd see that as the top five, then that sixth spot I'd say Aston Villa are favourites.'
Opening Fixtures and Community Shield
Arsenal and City will meet this weekend in the Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. The Gunners then begin their league campaign against newly promoted Coventry City on Friday, while City host Bournemouth in Maresca's first league game. These early fixtures could set the tone for what Smith predicts will be a two-horse race.
