Paul Merson has dismissed both Manchester City and Manchester United as serious contenders in this season's Premier League title race, asserting that Arsenal are 'comfortable' favourites to retain their crown.
Arsenal's strength and depth
Arsenal begin their title defence on Friday against newly-promoted Coventry City at the Emirates. Mikel Arteta's side have strengthened their squad this summer with the signings of Bruno Guimaraes, Christian Tzolis and Illan Meslier, while Ezri Konsa is also expected to join the defending champions in the coming days. The Gunners already laid down a marker with a comprehensive win over Manchester City in the Community Shield last weekend.
Merson, speaking to Sky Sports, was unequivocal in his assessment: 'I just can't see anybody stopping Arsenal. They'll win it quite comfortably. I don't see a single weakness in them regarding the Premier League.' He added: 'They do have a few weaknesses in the Champions League but for the Premier League, they remind me of when Manchester City first started dominating the league: two players in every position.'
Manchester City's challenges
Merson highlighted the impact of key departures at Manchester City, particularly the sale of midfielder Rodri to Barcelona. 'After watching the Community Shield, I said the one thing Manchester City cannot do is sell Rodri. And they did it after the game. I just don't see them competing with Arsenal this season,' Merson said. 'There were some positives for them in that game, but over 38 games, I just don't see how Manchester City will be able to live with Arsenal.'
City are also adapting to life without former manager Pep Guardiola, with Enzo Maresca returning to the helm. Other rivals have undergone managerial changes too, with Andoni Iraola taking over at Liverpool and Xabi Alonso at Chelsea after their poor domestic campaigns last season.
Manchester United's limitations
Merson also questioned Manchester United's ability to mount a title challenge under Michael Carrick, who is preparing for his first full season in charge. Despite United picking up more points than any other team after Carrick's appointment in January—earning 39 points from 17 games—Merson expressed concerns about squad depth.
'I just worry about Manchester United with Europe. We saw it last season at times – their squad is wafer thin. If Bruno Fernandes got injured, then you'd really worry. And yes, they have Youri Tielemans in there but I don't see a dominant midfield. Manchester United will have their ups and downs – and I don't expect them to be challengers. It's too early for that,' Merson said.
Merson's predicted top-six for the season is: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Manchester United. He concluded: 'The only ones who can beat Arsenal are themselves.'
