Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has delivered a sobering message to Arsenal, insisting that Manchester City remain formidable contenders in the Premier League title race, particularly following their successful January transfer window.
City's Transfer Boost Strengthens Title Challenge
Manchester City ended a four-game winless run in the league with a victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend. This period of unexpected vulnerability from Pep Guardiola's side had presented Arsenal with a golden opportunity to establish a commanding lead at the summit. However, the Gunners faltered, recording two consecutive draws before suffering a defeat to Manchester United on Sunday.
These results mean Mikel Arteta's team, who are seeking their first league crown since 2004, now hold a precarious four-point advantage at the top of the table with fifteen fixtures remaining. While it remains uncertain whether City can overtake the current favourites, Gerrard has issued a cautionary note to the North London club.
Gerrard's Ominous Assessment
The former England midfielder, speaking to TNT Sports, asserted that the reigning champions are 'not too far away' from their peak performance levels. He believes their squad has been significantly enhanced by strategic acquisitions during the winter market.
'If you look at their January signings they've bolstered the squad,' Gerrard remarked. 'We were just speaking about Antoine Semenyo and how good a signing that is. Marc Guehi could be really important as well.'
Personal Disappointment Over Guehi Move
Gerrard expressed his personal dismay that Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who joined City for a reported £20 million, did not secure a move to Liverpool. The defender had been close to joining the Merseyside club last summer before the deal collapsed.
'I was devastated he never came to Liverpool in all honesty because we've had some defensive issues,' Gerrard admitted. 'Those signings will really help them and boost them. With Man City's experience and quality, you can never write them off.'
He further predicted a strong finish to the season for Guardiola's side: 'I think they'll go through in the Champions League and I don't think they'll go away in the Premier League title race. I think they'll be there until the end.'
New Signings Express Their Excitement
Following his transfer, Marc Guehi shared his enthusiasm about joining the Etihad Stadium outfit. 'First and foremost, it's such an honour, such a big club to come and play for,' he stated. 'For me, I have always just been obsessed with getting better and wanting to improve. This is the perfect place for me to do that.'
Manchester City's director of football, Hugo Viana, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Guehi's qualities. 'It is clear Marc has been one of the best defenders in English football for quite some time now,' Viana said. 'We have signed a huge talent who will help us improve. He is strong, has exceptional defensive qualities, and brings passion and energy every time he steps onto the pitch.'
The Road Ahead
The title race is poised for a gripping climax. Arsenal return to Premier League action this Saturday with a fixture against Leeds United, while Manchester City face a challenging away match at Tottenham Hotspur. The coming weeks will test the resilience and depth of both squads as they vie for domestic supremacy.
