Former Tottenham Hotspur and Premier League goalkeeper Brad Friedel has issued a stark warning to Arsenal, claiming Manchester City will ultimately hunt them down in this season's gripping title race.
Friedel's Title Race Verdict
The warning comes as Manchester City moved to within two points of leaders Arsenal after a chaotic 5-4 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night. Despite their slender advantage, Friedel believes the psychological and physical demands of the run-in will favour the reigning champions.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Friedel stated: ‘I think Man City will catch Arsenal. I think Arsenal are the best team right now, I think they play the best football.’ However, he pointed to the challenges ahead: ‘But I think when it gets to March and April and they’re still going in Europe and the FA Cup if they get one or two of the wrong injuries... Man City has already fallen down they’re on the mend they’ve had their psychological dip and I think they’re going to start coming up.’
City's Scare and Arsenal's Opportunity
Pep Guardiola's side endured a madcap evening in west London, almost surrendering a four-goal lead against Fulham. Having been 5-1 up shortly after half-time, they conceded three second-half goals and were clinging on at the final whistle. This followed a narrow 3-2 win over Leeds United the previous weekend, secured by a Phil Foden injury-time strike.
These performances have highlighted City's defensive frailties, but they continue to apply intense pressure on an Arsenal side seeking their first league title in over two decades. The Gunners, who have finished as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, can restore a five-point cushion with a win at home to Brentford on Wednesday evening.
Arteta's Legacy and Guardiola's Bewilderment
Mikel Arteta is approaching his sixth anniversary as Arsenal manager, with the 2020 FA Cup remaining his only major trophy. When asked if Arteta should face dismissal if he fails to win silverware this season, Friedel suggested the decision is more complex, depending on the internal dynamics and progress at the club.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola was left almost speechless by his team's rollercoaster performance against Fulham. ‘Did you enjoy that, guys?’ he smiled post-match. ‘Me? Impossible. It’s the Premier League, you can’t control... I know you’re going to ask what happened, and I don’t have an answer.’ He acknowledged the sheer unpredictability of the league, even after Erling Haaland scored his 100th Premier League goal in the match.
As the title race intensifies, Friedel's prediction sets the stage for a tense battle between the Premier League's two best teams, with Arsenal's resilience set to be tested against City's proven pedigree in the decisive months.
