Paul Merson Predicts Premier League Title Race Could Hinge on £20m Signing
Football pundit Paul Merson has delivered a stark warning to Arsenal supporters, suggesting Manchester City's January acquisition of defender Marc Guehi could prove decisive in this season's dramatic Premier League title race. The former Arsenal star described recent developments as "quite unbelievable" as Manchester City close what was once a substantial gap at the summit.
Arsenal's Fragility Exposed in Recent Weeks
Just weeks ago, Arsenal appeared destined to cruise to their first Premier League title since 2004. The Gunners were moments away from establishing a commanding nine-point lead when Manchester City trailed Liverpool at Anfield. However, Pep Guardiola's side staged a dramatic late comeback with two crucial goals, maintaining pressure on Mikel Arteta's team.
Since that pivotal moment, Arsenal have shown concerning signs of vulnerability. A disappointing 1-1 draw against London rivals Brentford was followed by an even more alarming collapse against bottom-placed Wolves, where the Gunners surrendered a two-goal advantage to settle for another draw.
"The Premier League title race is in Manchester City's hands now," Merson declared in an interview with Sportskeeda. "If they win every game from now, they win the league title. Three weeks ago, you could have never thought it would be this way."
The Crucial North London Derby Looms
These consecutive setbacks have reduced Arsenal's advantage to just five points ahead of Sunday's crucial north London derby against Tottenham. The situation could become even more precarious before that match begins, as Manchester City face Newcastle United on Saturday night. A City victory would slash Arsenal's lead to a mere two points, applying immense psychological pressure before the derby.
Merson expressed particular concern about Arsenal's performance against Wolves: "Imagine leading 2-0 and then conceding a draw against Wolves, that is worrying. Arsenal did not deserve to win that game if I'm being honest."
Manchester City's Strengthened Defense
While acknowledging this isn't Guardiola's strongest Manchester City squad, Merson expects them to overcome Newcastle and "put real pressure on Arsenal ahead of their derby against Tottenham." The pundit highlighted the importance of midfielder Rodri, who he believes will "play a crucial role" throughout the remainder of the season.
However, Merson identified January signing Marc Guehi as potentially the most significant factor. The £20m acquisition from Crystal Palace has seamlessly integrated into City's defense, providing stability that allows Rodri greater freedom.
"With Marc Guehi in the back four now, Rodri doesn't have to protect City's defence that much now," Merson explained. "I have a feeling Guehi might just be the reason why City catch Arsenal in the title race!"
Newcastle's Role in the Title Drama
Merson noted that Newcastle's emphatic 6-1 Champions League victory over Qarabag ensures Eddie Howe can field his strongest lineup against Manchester City. While acknowledging Newcastle's challenging run-in—which includes matches against Chelsea and Manchester United—Merson remains skeptical about their chances against the defending champions.
The pundit anticipates Guardiola will deploy Erling Haaland and Antoine Semenyo in attack, with Phil Foden completing the front three and Rayan Cherki providing impact from the bench.
Historical Context and Current Reality
While Arsenal seek to end their two-decade Premier League drought, Manchester City have established themselves as the dominant force of English football's modern era, capturing six of the past eight titles. This experience in navigating tense title run-ins could prove invaluable as the season reaches its climax.
Merson's analysis suggests the psychological advantage may have already shifted toward the Etihad Stadium, with Arsenal's recent stumbles creating an opening that Manchester City—bolstered by their strategic January signing—appear perfectly positioned to exploit.
