Merson Makes The Case: Why Arteta’s The Man To Back In This Title Race | OneFootball

The 2025/26 Premier League season is finally upon us.

After three seasons of trying but always falling short, Arsenal will be hoping this is the year they finally get it right.

Everyone is tipping this Liverpool super team, fresh off a summer spending spree, as favourites to win the league.

But Paul Merson is not convinced they have what it takes to go all the way.

Merson’s Title Race Predictions

In his Sportskeeda column, the Arsenal legend candidly outlined why the Reds might be in for a rude awakening this season.

He pointed to Liverpool’s shaky showing in the Community Shield as early evidence of cracks in their armour.

He went on to explain:

“It will all come down to who can keep their best players fit throughout the season,” and he believes Arsenal will get it right this time.

“If you ask me to pick the favourites to win the Premier League right now, I’d have to go with Arsenal.

“They needed a holding midfielder and a centre-forward this summer, and Mikel Arteta has filled both gaps quite well in my opinion.

“From what I saw in the Community Shield, Liverpool look a bit weak at the back.

“I believe Arsenal and Liverpool are the leading contenders, and it will all come down to who can keep their best players fit throughout the season.

“Liverpool did that last time out and ended up winning the league. Arsenal need to do the same, and I have a feeling they’ll get it done this time.”

Luck played a huge part in Liverpool’s title win.

Gabriel Martinelli (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Less Competition Last Season

That 10-point gap over second-placed Arsenal was pure fortune, those 84 points would not have won the league in either of the two seasons prior.

There simply was not any real competition last season.

With Arsenal and Manchester City plagued by injuries, Liverpool faced no serious challenge.

But this season presents a fresh test.

Arsenal have enjoyed one of their finest transfer windows in years.

They have ditched the pursuit of potential and instead banked on ready-made talent, adding much-needed squad depth.

With smart rotation and a bit of luck, Arteta should have what it takes to fire this Arsenal side to glory.

And while fans would love to beat Liverpool at their strongest, they would not mind taking advantage of their misfortunes either.

What do you think, Gooners – are Arsenal finally ready to go one better and lift the Premier League title?

Daniel O

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