According to a report by Metro on November 2, 2026, former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has identified Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea as the main clubs capable of challenging Arsenal for the Premier League title this season. However, the former England international still believes Mikel Arteta’s team are favourites to successfully defend their championship.

Arsenal strengthened their position in the title race on Sunday after recording a crucial 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield. Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the encounter in the first half, helping the Gunners secure three valuable points away from home.

The result became even more important following Manchester City’s unexpected 1-0 defeat against Brighton at the Etihad Stadium. City’s setback allowed Arsenal to move back to the top of the Premier League standings and increase their advantage over their closest competitors.

Reacting to Arsenal’s performance, Gerrard praised the team's discipline, determination and ability to produce results in difficult circumstances. He believes such qualities are essential for any club hoping to win the Premier League.

Speaking on The Overlap Daily, the Liverpool legend explained that collecting victories at challenging grounds could ultimately determine the outcome of the championship.

He said: “Credit to Arsenal because that’s how you win leagues, going to places like Liverpool, being strong, sticking together, and putting in a different type of performance.”

Gerrard maintained that Arsenal have the necessary qualities to finish the campaign as champions for a second successive season. He also suggested that their triumph at Anfield could become an important moment in their title defence.

Despite recognising Liverpool's potential, he believes Arne Slot’s team must improve significantly if they are to close the gap on Arsenal and remain competitive throughout the campaign.

The former midfielder also highlighted Manchester City and Chelsea as serious challengers, arguing that their squad quality and depth could help them maintain consistency across the demanding 38-match season.

Brighton have equally attracted attention with their impressive performances, particularly their victory over Manchester City. Gerrard acknowledged their progress under Fabian Hurzeler and believes they have a realistic opportunity to compete for a Champions League qualification position.

However, he remains doubtful about their ability to maintain a title challenge until the end of the season.

Explaining his position, Gerrard added: “I just think where Arsenal’s squad is, and City’s, the Liverpool squad, I just think over the course of the 38 games, the three teams, and Chelsea, when you look at Chelsea in the second half there, I think them teams will pull away a bit over the course.”

His assessment suggests that Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea could eventually establish themselves ahead of the other Premier League contenders as the season progresses.