"They are": Rio Ferdinand makes Premier League title prediction on Arsenal after Liverpool lose again

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has made his Premier League title prediction on Arsenal following Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat to the Red Devils at Anfield.

The Gunners were five points behind the holders after the fifth game week, but there has been a tremendous turnaround over the last three matches.

Arsenal have jumped to the top of the league with a four-point lead over Arne Slot’s side, who have surprisingly lost three top-flight games on the bounce.

Mikel Arteta’s side are presently three points ahead of second-placed Manchester City. Ferdinand believes they are favourites to win the title this time around.

In a Q&A session on his YouTube channel, he said: “I said before a ball was kicked this season that Arsenal, this is their chance to win the league.

“I felt they had to do it this year and couldn’t come second again. They’ve got a wonderful group of players, it’s probably the best squad in terms of depth in the league.

“They recruited well in the summer and found a way again against Fulham yesterday. They are my favourites to win the Premier League.”

Arsenal handed early advantage in title race

The Gunners were unable to capitalise on Liverpool’s shortcomings last term. The game against Aston Villa was a firm example. They shared the spoils despite leading 2-0 at one stage.

A similar instance was on the cards at Newcastle United this campaign, but they proved their title credentials. Mikel Merino equalised before a dramatic stoppage-time winner by Gabriel.

Arsenal now have a handy three-point lead over Manchester City, while they are four points in front of Liverpool. City and Liverpool face off at the Etihad Stadium before the next international break.

Prior to that, City face Aston Villa and Bournemouth (away & home). Liverpool will be in action at Brentford before hosting an in-form Villa side. None of those fixtures are a cake walk.

The Gunners, on the other hand, have a home game against Crystal Palace before travelling to newcomers Burnley and Sunderland. On paper, Arsenal have the better set of fixtures coming up.

The Gunners’ faithful will be hoping that the club can continue their winning streak. It would be a huge confidence boost for Arsenal if they could extend their three-point lead at the summit before the final international break of the year.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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