Former Manchester City goalkeeper David James believes Arsenal are the frontrunners to clinch the Premier League trophy this season. He lauded Mikel Arteta's side for their impressive start and consistent performances, highlighting their solitary defeat as a testament to their quality.

“Arsenal are the favourites to lift the Premier League title this year after their success last season. They are displaying a serious and beautiful brand of football, and they have lost just one game so far. They even defeated Liverpool at Anfield and didn’t even give them the chance to score, which says a lot about how Mikel Arteta has built this Arsenal side,” James told Jio Star. He emphasized that Arsenal’s focus on fundamental execution has been key to their early momentum.

However, James, a former England international, cautioned against dismissing Manchester City despite their recent dip in form. “But Manchester City have surprised me. They were on a seven-match unbeaten streak, and then suddenly, they lost two games on the trot. That kind of dip is unlike them. But I feel it’s too early to rule them out as the Premier League challengers to Arsenal. Still, one of these two clubs will be lifting the trophy,” he added. He expressed his personal hope for Manchester City, given his playing history with the club, and believes Erling Haaland could help them regain their winning stride.

Reflecting on the evolving nature of the Premier League, James noted the significantly reduced margin for error in modern football. He contrasted the current era, where teams like Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal consistently achieve 90+ point seasons, with the pre-2000 period when losing eight or nine matches still allowed for a comfortable title win. “One terrible week can cost you the title, and that is why the best teams treat every game like a final. It is no longer about how many games you win, but how few you lose,” he explained, underscoring the intense competition at the top.

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