Michael Owen has named Arsenal as favourites to retain the Premier League title this season, but warned that the chasing pack, including Liverpool and Chelsea, could make it a close-run race. The former Liverpool and Manchester United striker shared his top-six prediction with Metro, placing Arsenal first, followed by Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham.
Arsenal ended a 22-year wait for the league title last season under Mikel Arteta, after three consecutive runner-up finishes. Their summer business has been bolstered by the arrivals of Christos Tzolis, Illan Meslier, and the marquee signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United. However, the Gunners are still seeking a left-winger after missing out on Vinicius Junior, and a back injury to William Saliba has prompted them to consider defensive reinforcements.
Owen's Title Contenders Assessment
Owen noted that Arsenal's points tally last season was not in the nineties, meaning a slight dip could open the door for rivals. He highlighted Chelsea's lack of European football as a key advantage, and pointed to new managers at Liverpool and Manchester City as potential catalysts for strong starts. Tottenham's summer signings also drew praise.
'I think there can be a few title challengers this season,' Owen told Metro. 'You look at Arsenal's points tally and it wasn't in the nineties so they only have to drop a little and with Chelsea not in Europe, they can mount a challenge. New managers at Liverpool and City could hit a good run of form early on and be in with a shout as well. Tottenham have signed well too. So Arsenal are favourites for sure, but it's not a foregone conclusion that they win it comfortably.'
Managerial Changes and Transfer Activity
The off-season has seen a flurry of managerial changes among Arsenal's rivals. Enzo Maresca has returned to Manchester City, while Andoni Iraola and Xabi Alonso have taken charge at Liverpool and Chelsea respectively, following disappointing domestic campaigns. Owen expressed confidence in the Spanish duo to improve their sides' fortunes.
On Liverpool, Owen said: 'Last season at Liverpool wasn't great, the style of play wasn't as good as it had been and they conceded far too many goals. But Slot leaving and Iraola replacing him means a new style of play. He brings a lot of excitement from the way he played at Bournemouth, but Liverpool are a much bigger club and the pressure mounts up now. I do think Liverpool need more, but it looks like Barcola is the one they want and it will cost them a huge amount of money to get him in. But if they can do that and add more depth, more quality, then they can really challenge for the title.'
Regarding Chelsea, Owen added: 'Chelsea have once again spent big in the transfer window, but maybe this time, they have a manager who can control the dressing room and get the best out of the players, for them to play as a team and be consistent. It is a big factor not having European football and should give them a chance to perform well during the season.'
Manchester United's Champions League Concerns
Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season at Old Trafford after taking over as interim midway through last season. Owen, however, fears that the added demands of Champions League football could hamper United's league form.
'I don't think the squad is there right now,' Owen said. 'They need to add a few more players to cope with the increased demands of all competitions, especially the Champions League. I would think Man Utd are looking to strengthen more and I would be surprised if they didn't. So I am hoping they can add more quality, more depth to the squad as it's a long season and so many games, especially in forward areas, with just Sesko as the main striker.'
Top-Six Prediction and Tottenham's Rise
Owen tipped Tottenham as potential risers under Roberto De Zerbi, who has overseen lavish summer spending. He predicted Spurs would return to European competition. His final top-six forecast is: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham.
Owen concluded: 'At this stage I would go Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Man City, Man Utd & then Spurs.'
