Gary Neville tips Arsenal to win Premier League

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has declared Arsenal as the favorites to lift the Premier League trophy this season, citing their impressive form and stability under manager Mikel Arteta.

Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast on Monday, Neville praised Arsenal’s steady performances, adding that their consistency could be the decisive factor in the title race. He noted that this season’s competition is likely to be won with fewer points than in previous years.

“Arsenal don’t need to reach 90 or 100 points to win it,” Neville explained. “A total in the mid or high 80s should be enough, and with the way they’re playing, they can definitely achieve that. This has to be their year.”

Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Crystal Palace on Sunday solidified their position at the top of the Premier League table.

They are now four points ahead of second-placed Liverpool and six clear of Manchester City, who suffered a shock defeat to Aston Villa.

Neville, who has previously predicted Arsenal’s success in past seasons, said this time feels different because of how Arteta’s team has learned to grind out results even without dominating games.

“They’ve found that balance,” he said. “They’re more composed under pressure, and that’s what wins titles.”

He also highlighted the leadership of captain Martin Ødegaard, the defensive improvement anchored by William Saliba, and the attacking impact of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus as reasons for Arsenal’s rise.

“It’s not about being flashy now,” Neville said. “It’s about staying consistent and being resilient — and that’s exactly what Arsenal have become.”

Neville’s renewed faith in Arsenal comes after several seasons of near misses for Arteta’s men, who finished runners-up to Manchester City in the 2022–2023 campaign.

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With City and Liverpool both showing signs of inconsistency this term, Neville believes Arsenal’s ability to maintain focus could finally see them crowned champions.

Pundits have echoed similar sentiments across the Premier League, noting that Arsenal’s maturity and tactical discipline have evolved since their collapse in previous title races.

While Manchester City remain dangerous contenders, Neville said Arsenal now have “the mentality and momentum” to go all the way.

The Gunners’ next fixtures will test their credentials, as they face Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United in quick succession. But for Neville, the signs point toward a long-awaited triumph for Arteta’s men.

Punch