Former Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder Jermaine Jenas has delivered his verdict on the Premier League title race, firmly backing Arsenal to finally end their long wait for the trophy.
Jenas's Title Race Verdict
The pundit, speaking to 10bet, believes the championship is now a straight fight between Arsenal and Manchester City, despite Aston Villa's incredible run of form. The Gunners currently sit top of the table, but their recent performances have been patchy, with just three wins from their last six league matches.
In contrast, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City have hit their stride, winning four consecutive games to close the gap to just two points. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have won their last six league fixtures and are only three points off the summit, hoping to turn the contest into a three-horse race.
Why Arsenal Remain the Team to Beat
Despite the pressure, the 42-year-old Jenas insists Mikel Arteta's side are still the favourites. "I do think Arsenal are still favourites. I've been saying it from the start of the season," Jenas stated. "I think they've got the best team."
He acknowledged that the absence of key defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes had exposed frailties, but expects a solid foundation to return in the new year. "I don't see a better team in the league right now," he added.
Jenas did warn that Manchester City are capable of applying intense pressure with their famous unbeaten runs. However, he pointed to a crucial difference between the sides: City's propensity for a 'clanger'. "I think City are making a really good run of it, but they've still got a clanger in them," he explained.
Learning from Past Heartbreak
Arsenal have finished as runners-up in each of the last three campaigns, raising questions about their ability to handle the final stretch. Jenas, however, believes those painful experiences will be the making of them this time.
"I'd be absolutely shocked if this group of players at Arsenal have not learned their lesson with regards to just dealing with pressure when it gets to the business end of the season," he said.
He referenced a recent narrow win over Wolverhampton Wanderers as an example of the slice of luck all title winners need. His one concern is that Arsenal are not demolishing opponents, often winning by tight margins. "It's always like a one-nil, two-nil type of situation," he noted, which keeps pressure high.
Nevertheless, his prediction is clear: Arsenal will lift the Premier League trophy. "I still think even if we get to New Year's Day and they're behind City, I think they'll go on and win it," Jenas concluded.
The title race continues this weekend, with Manchester City hosting West Ham at 3pm on Saturday. Arsenal travel to face Everton in an 8pm kick-off later that same day. Aston Villa will welcome Manchester United to Villa Park on Sunday at 4.30pm.
