Paul Merson, a two-time league champion with Arsenal, believes the Premier League title race could shockingly conclude before the next international break. He points to the surprising inconsistency of both Liverpool and Manchester City as the driving force behind this bold prediction.
Arsenal’s upcoming match against Burnley at Turf Moor is seen as a crucial test, but Merson anticipates a victory for the league leaders. He acknowledges Burnley’s recent form, particularly their strength at home, but believes Arsenal’s current level is simply too high.
Merson highlights Burnley’s tactical approach – a defensive strategy common for newly promoted teams – but suggests it will be incredibly difficult to even register a shot on goal against Arsenal’s dominant side. Their ability to stifle opposition attacks is truly remarkable.
A staggering statistic recently caught Merson’s attention: even if Arsenal conceded a goal from *every* shot they faced this season, they would still have amassed 13 or 14 points. This illustrates the sheer defensive solidity underpinning their success.
Comparisons have been drawn between this Arsenal team and Jose Mourinho’s legendary Chelsea squads, renowned for their impenetrable defenses. However, Merson notes a key difference – Chelsea maintained that level of consistency throughout an entire season.
Arsenal, while exceptional, have only demonstrated this dominance for nine games. To truly emulate Chelsea, they must maintain a rate of conceding no more than four goals every nine games. Achieving this would be an extraordinary feat in the modern game.
Merson boldly stated weeks ago that if Arsenal secured four points from their challenging fixtures against Manchester City and Newcastle United, they would win the league. They delivered, and he remains unwavering in his conviction.
The next two weeks are pivotal. Arsenal face Burnley and Sunderland, while Liverpool confront Aston Villa and Manchester City. Merson anticipates Arsenal winning both their matches and doesn’t foresee a Liverpool victory this weekend.
A potential clash between Manchester City and Liverpool resulting in dropped points for both would, in Merson’s view, all but guarantee Arsenal the title. He even suggests this early success could fuel a strong run in the Champions League.
Arsenal’s momentum continued with a 2-0 victory over Brighton in the Carabao Cup midweek, securing their place in the quarter-finals. They will now face Crystal Palace, with formidable opponents like Manchester City, Chelsea, and Newcastle United still in contention.
