Lineker Backs Arsenal Despite City's Resurgence
Former England striker Gary Lineker has delivered his verdict on the Premier League title race following a dramatic weekend of action that saw Manchester City thump defending champions Liverpool and league leaders Arsenal drop points at Sunderland.
The pivotal weekend, culminating in the November international break, has reshaped the landscape of the competition, with Manchester City roaring back into contention with a convincing 3-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
City's Statement Victory in Guardiola's Milestone
Pep Guardiola enjoyed a perfect celebration for his 1,000th game in management, watching his side dismantle Liverpool in a performance that sent a clear message to their rivals. The goals came from Erling Haaland and Nico Gonzalez in the first half, with Jeremy Doku adding a third after the break to seal a hugely impressive win.
This statement result leaves Manchester City second in the table, now just four points behind early pacesetters Arsenal. The win marks a significant turnaround for City, who had experienced an unconvincing start to the campaign.
Arsenal's Stumble and Liverpool's Crisis
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who have been the standout team in England this season, saw their momentum checked by a late sucker-punch at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Having come from behind to lead, the Gunners were denied an 11th consecutive win when Brian Brobbey scored an injury-time equaliser for Sunderland, forcing Arsenal to settle for a single point.
For Liverpool, the situation is far more grave. The defeat to City leaves them languishing in eighth position, a significant eight points adrift of Arsenal. Under manager Arne Slot, the defending champions have now lost five of their opening 11 league games, prompting former Manchester United captain Roy Keane to declare a state of 'crisis' at Anfield on Sky Sports.
Lineker's Verdict: Why He Fancies the Gunners
Analysing the shifting tides on 'The Rest is Football' podcast, Gary Lineker explained why he believes the advantage still lies with North London. 'Arsenal are not chasing anyone this season, they're actually out in front and that will help them,' Lineker stated.
He elaborated, 'Being in that position means if you don't lose matches you'll be okay and no one else has been incredibly consistent. Man City are picking up certainly but Liverpool have been very poor. You would have to fancy Arsenal at the moment, really.'
Lineker concluded with a message for the fans, adding, 'If I was an Arsenal fan I would be feeling pretty good right now.' Despite Manchester City's emphatic return to form, the pundit's prediction firmly places Arsenal as the current favourites to lift the trophy.
