Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole believes Arsenal will win the Premier League title if Manchester City fail in their appeal against a guilty verdict over alleged financial regulation breaches.

According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Cole maintained that Manchester City could still overtake Arsenal in the title race if their legal challenge succeeds, but backed Mikel Arteta's side to retain the trophy if the verdict stands.

Manchester City were found guilty by an independent commission of more than 100 breaches of financial regulations covering the period between 2009 and 2018.

The commission found that the club had used arrangements described as "sham contracts" to inflate revenues and reduce costs.

The Premier League champions have appealed the decision, arguing that the ruling contained "clear material errors of law, principle and fact and is unsafe".

City have also insisted that they possess substantial evidence supporting their position as they challenge the commission's findings.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the case, Enzo Maresca's Manchester City remain level with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table after eight matches.

However, City's recent form has raised questions, with the club losing two of their five games since the verdict.

Their latest setback came on Saturday when Aston Villa secured a 2-1 victory, handing City their first league defeat of the season.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have recovered from their surprising 3-0 defeat to Brighton before the international break.

The Gunners have since recorded three consecutive Premier League victories and earned a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Speaking on The Dressing Room podcast, Cole explained why the outcome of City's appeal could determine the destination of the title.

"I think Arsenal," he said when asked for his latest prediction.

"If Man City's lawyers go to work, they win the league. The lawyers are the most important people in this right now! If not it's Arsenal and everyone else is just catching up."

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has also identified Arsenal as favourites, pointing to their squad depth and strong starting line-up despite concerns about their attacking quality.

Arsenal face a difficult trip to Liverpool on Sunday, while Manchester City host Brighton on Saturday. Both fixtures could influence the early title race as the two clubs seek to establish an advantage.