Michael Owen Stands by Arsenal in Premier League Title Chase
Former Liverpool and England striker Michael Owen has reiterated his belief that Arsenal possess the necessary qualities to secure the Premier League title this season, despite their recent dip in form. The Gunners' dramatic 3-2 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday has intensified scrutiny on Mikel Arteta's squad, with the team managing just two points from their last three league fixtures.
Title Race Tightens After Arsenal's Setback
Arsenal's loss at the Emirates Stadium, coupled with earlier draws against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, has allowed Manchester City and Aston Villa to close within four points of the long-time leaders. Owen acknowledged the shifting dynamics while maintaining his faith in Arsenal's overall strength.
'I still think it's Arsenal's to give away,' Owen told Premier League Productions. 'I think they're the best team in the league, they're the most consistent and the most solid and probably the best squad. But two points from nine is a wobble.'
The former striker noted that Manchester City's proximity despite what he described as an average season demonstrates how competitive this year's title race has become. He also highlighted Aston Villa's resurgence as another factor adding pressure to the North London club.
Arteta Faces Immediate Challenges
Arsenal have an immediate opportunity to respond to their domestic disappointment when they complete their Champions League group stage campaign against FC Kairat on Wednesday. This is followed by a challenging Premier League fixture away at Leeds United's Elland Road this weekend, where Arteta must address several emerging concerns.
The defeat to Manchester United exposed particular issues in attack, with Gabriel Jesus struggling to make an impact as the central striker despite his recent brace against Inter Milan. The Brazilian was substituted in the 58th minute after failing to trouble United's defence, raising questions about Arteta's selection decisions ahead of the Leeds encounter.
Individual Errors Prove Costly
Summer signing Martin Zubimendi experienced a rare off day, with his misplaced pass gifting Bryan Mbeumo United's equaliser just before half-time. The Spanish midfielder, who has been largely impressive since arriving from Real Sociedad, appeared uncharacteristically lacking in creativity when Arsenal needed leadership during the second half.
Despite taking an early lead through Lisandro Martinez's own goal, Arsenal never fully recovered after Mbeumo's strike. United's victory was sealed by spectacular efforts from Patrick Dorgu and substitute Matheus Cunha, though Dorgu's suspected hamstring injury cast a shadow over his outstanding individual performance.
External Doubts Add to Pressure
Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira has publicly questioned his old club's ability to withstand the mounting pressure from their title rivals. When asked about these comments, Arteta responded diplomatically: 'That's fine. We accept every opinion, where it's coming from. They have the right reason to say it. At the end, we have to show the mental strength that we have on the pitch when it comes to a match day.'
The manager acknowledged his team's strong start against United but lamented the individual errors that changed the game's momentum. 'Errors are a part of football, very unlike us, but we gave them the goal and hope,' Arteta reflected, while praising United's 'individual quality and magic moments' that ultimately decided the contest.
Looking Ahead
As the Premier League enters its crucial phase, Arsenal's response to this setback will be closely monitored. Owen's continued backing provides some external confidence, but Arteta must now demonstrate that his squad possesses the mental fortitude to convert their early-season dominance into tangible success. With Manchester City and Aston Villa showing no signs of relenting, every match becomes increasingly significant in what promises to be one of the most tightly contested title races in recent memory.
