Joe Cole Makes Stark Title Prediction Ahead of Liverpool vs Man City Clash
Former Chelsea and England winger Joe Cole has delivered a bold verdict on the Premier League title race, suggesting that Manchester City's championship aspirations could be extinguished this weekend. Cole believes that if Pep Guardiola's side suffer defeat at Anfield against Liverpool on Sunday, it will effectively hand the trophy to Arsenal.
Arsenal's Commanding Position and City's Stuttering Form
Arsenal currently sit six points clear at the summit of the Premier League table after a convincing 4-0 victory over Leeds United. This advantage came as Manchester City dropped crucial points, surrendering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Tottenham Hotspur. The Gunners have an opportunity to further tighten their grip when they host Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Should Mikel Arteta's team secure three points, they would move nine points ahead of City before the latter's daunting trip to Merseyside. This scenario places immense pressure on Guardiola's squad, who have managed just one win in their last six league outings.
Historical Struggles and Cole's Dire Warning
Manchester City face a formidable challenge at Anfield, where their record is notoriously poor. The reigning champions have claimed victory only once in their previous twenty-two visits to Liverpool's home ground. Although Liverpool have not replicated the dominant form that saw them win the title under Arne Slot last season, they remain a potent force, especially on their own turf.
In an interview with Paddy Power, Cole did not mince words about the stakes. 'It would be the final nail in the coffin,' he stated. 'This is a huge game. This is one of the first massive title run-in games. The importance of winning this game is vital. If they don't win this game, I think I'd be telling everyone it's Arsenal's league now!'
Merson Echoes Cole's Pessimism for City
Cole is not alone in his assessment. Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has also expressed scepticism about City's chances, predicting that the title race could be concluded by Sunday evening. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson remarked: 'I think the title will be wrapped up this weekend. I can't see Arsenal dropping points in this game. If Arsenal win, they will be nine points clear at the top and then Manchester City go to Anfield, which means it will all be over on Sunday!'
Merson highlighted Liverpool's recent resurgence, noting they have scored ten goals in two matches following a late defeat to Bournemouth. 'I'd be shocked if Liverpool lost this football match!' he added. 'Manchester City have to win this game. Even a draw would mean the title race is over because Arsenal would still have an eight-point lead. Like I said earlier, I expect the title race to be done this weekend, so Liverpool win.'
Guardiola Acknowledges Anfield Challenge
Ahead of the crucial fixture, Pep Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of facing Liverpool at Anfield. In his pre-match press conference, the City manager said: 'Always a tough opponent and a difficult place and stadium, especially with the quality of the players and the managers. Yes, it's been tough. They remain an exceptional team. Top-class manager and an exceptional team, no doubt. The moments are the moments, the seasons are the seasons so always remains a good team.'
As the Premier League enters a pivotal phase, all eyes will be on Anfield this Sunday. With Arsenal poised to capitalise on any slip-up, the pressure is firmly on Manchester City to deliver a result that keeps their title defence alive.
