Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has delivered a frank assessment of this season's Premier League title race, conceding that his old club are effectively out of contention while backing current leaders Arsenal to lift the trophy.
Gerrard's Title Prediction Favours Arsenal
The Gunners, who last won the Premier League in 2004, hold a commanding seven-point advantage at the summit ahead of Sunday's crucial clash with Manchester United. Gerrard, speaking on TNT Sports after Liverpool's Champions League victory over Marseille, acknowledged that while the title race remains unpredictable, he "expects" Arsenal to end their 22-year wait for domestic glory.
Liverpool's Disappointing Title Defence
Defending champions Liverpool have endured a turbulent campaign despite significant summer investment. The Reds, who won last season's title by a ten-point margin, bolstered Arne Slot's squad with over £400 million worth of new signings. However, this substantial outlay has failed to produce the desired impact in the league, with Liverpool winning less than half of their matches and currently sitting 14 points behind Arsenal.
While Liverpool have shown signs of improvement recently, embarking on a 13-game unbeaten run across all competitions, this sequence includes four successive Premier League draws that have effectively ended their title aspirations. Gerrard noted the frustration among supporters, pointing to the high standards previously set by the team.
Arsenal's Remarkable Transformation
Arsenal's position as title favourites represents a remarkable turnaround from pre-season expectations. Mikel Arteta's side were widely considered second or even third favourites behind Liverpool and Manchester City when the campaign began. Their ascent has been aided significantly by Manchester City's recent struggles, with Pep Guardiola's team drawing three consecutive games before suffering a damaging derby defeat to Manchester United.
The Gunners are currently fighting on two fronts, topping both the Premier League table and their Champions League group following Tuesday night's victory over Inter Milan.
What Remains for Liverpool This Season?
Despite acknowledging Liverpool's elimination from the title race, Gerrard emphasised that his former club still have "an awful lot to play for" this season. He highlighted several remaining objectives:
- Champions League qualification: Securing a top-four finish remains crucial
- FA Cup success: The competition represents a major trophy opportunity
- Champions League progress: Liverpool sit fourth in their group ahead of their final match against Qarabag
Gerrard specifically pointed to European competition as a potential saving grace, suggesting that "if they can keep this group fit, this team has proved they can go the distance in this competition."
Upcoming Fixtures for Both Clubs
This weekend brings significant matches for both clubs. Arsenal resume their title charge with a home fixture against Manchester United, who travel to the Emirates Stadium buoyed by their recent derby victory over Manchester City despite the recent dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim.
Liverpool, meanwhile, face a trip to the south coast to take on Bournemouth as they seek to strengthen their position in the top four and maintain their recent improved form.
As the Premier League season approaches its decisive phase, Gerrard's prediction adds weight to the growing consensus that Arsenal are poised to break their two-decade title drought, while Liverpool must focus on salvaging their campaign through alternative avenues of success.
