Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves speaks on Premier League title race, urging Arsenal not to underestimate Manchester City’s ability to mount a late title charge, despite the Gunners’ impressive start to the season.
City have begun to rediscover their rhythm under Pep Guardiola, following a statement 4-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Phil Foden was the standout performer on the night, netting twice, while Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki also found the target in a performance that reminded everyone of their quality.
In the domestic league, City currently trail Arsenal by six points but remain a point clear of Liverpool ahead of their crucial encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Arsenal, who have not lifted the Premier League trophy since the 2003–04 “Invincibles” season, have been widely tipped as favourites this year. Yet, Hargreaves believes Guardiola’s side are far from out of the picture.
“City are slowly getting back to their best” Owen warns
Speaking to TNT Sports as reported by Metro, Owen Hargreaves highlighted how City’s squad appears to be returning to full strength after a challenging previous campaign hampered by injuries. He also praised the balance Guardiola has restored to his team, with several key figures regaining form at just the right time.
“I think he [Guardiola] knows his team is getting back to its best,” Hargreaves said.
“I think it helps having Donnarumma in goal and Haaland at the top of the pitch, but it just feels like they’ve got these brilliant little players, Cherki coming on and scoring a fabulous goal. Him and Foden are going to be some fun supporting Haaland.”
The former England international suggested that City’s resurgence could prove decisive as the season progresses.
“I think he’s got a great squad again this season. I think last year all the injuries, Rodri, and then the confidence went down,” Hargreaves explained.
“All of a sudden I think they’re slowly building, doing well in the Champions League, second in the Premier League, obviously got a big game at Anfield on Sunday. If they win that then it’s game on for everything.”
City’s recent form has seen them reclaim their usual control in matches, with Guardiola finding new energy through the creativity of players like Foden and Cherki.
The win against Dortmund showcased the fluid attacking play that has been synonymous with City’s dominance in recent years.
With Haaland rediscovering his ruthless finishing touch and the midfield regaining stability, Hargreaves believes that City could once again become the team to beat in England.
“The last team you want chasing you is these guys” – Hargreaves said
While Arsenal continue to impress under Mikel Arteta, Hargreaves warned that their lack of experience in closing out a title race could be their biggest challenge.
He believes City’s winning mentality, built over years of domestic success, gives them a crucial psychological edge as the season enters its decisive months.
“As great as Arsenal are, they haven’t done it, they haven’t won it yet, and they’re getting there, they’re going to win it eventually,” he said.
“But the last team you want chasing you is these guys, they’ve been there and done it for such a long time, the players and the manager.”
Owen Hargreaves speaks on Premier League title race, explaining that City’s experience in handling pressure could make all the difference down the stretch.
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“I think they’ve put themselves in a great position, Arsenal, but this City team are going to chip away quietly,” he said. “And if they can get Rodri back into the mix with this team, with what they have, then it will be a fascinating title race.”
The upcoming clash against Liverpool could prove pivotal. Victory at the Etihad would close the gap on Arsenal and reignite belief that City can yet retain their crown. Guardiola’s men have thrived under pressure before, often finding their best form when the title race tightens.
For Arsenal, maintaining composure and consistency will be essential if they are to hold off City’s pursuit. Arteta’s side have displayed a maturity that was sometimes lacking in previous campaigns, but Hargreaves’ warning serves as a reminder that champions like City rarely fade quietly.
With the season approaching its midway point, the title race is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in years. Arsenal’s youthful hunger, Liverpool’s attacking flair, and City’s experience promise an unpredictable finish.
