In the aftermath of their setback against Liverpool at Anfield or the stalemate with Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, few could have predicted Arsenal’s meteoric rise in the following weeks. Following their commanding victory over West Ham on Saturday, and aided by Liverpool’s subsequent defeat to Chelsea, Mikel Arteta’s men now perch triumphantly atop the Premier League table for the first time this season.
This turn of events, however, should not come as a complete revelation. In recent seasons, neither of the Premier League’s previous champions managed to overcome Arsenal, who have consistently proven themselves formidable opponents. The title has ultimately been claimed by the squad most adept at dispatching the other 17 teams in the league. Thus far, Arsenal have excelled in this regard, clinching victories in every fixture barring those against Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola’s sides. In contrast, Liverpool have faltered against both Chelsea and Crystal Palace, while City have stumbled to defeats by Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur.
The bookmakers are now casting a keen eye on Arsenal for league supremacy, with the majority offering evens odds for the Gunners to claim the title. Liverpool’s recent slump, evidenced by their loss to Chelsea, has seen their odds lengthen to around 3/1. Yet, this narrative extends beyond domestic soil. Arsenal have triumphed in their opening two UEFA Champions League matches, securing 2-0 victories against Athletic Club away and Olympiacos at the Emirates. Liverpool, meanwhile, suffered a setback against Galatasaray, with Victor Osimhen delivering the decisive blow in Turkey.
According to Opta, Arsenal boast an 18.1% chance of securing Champions League glory, with Liverpool trailing at 14.7%. Paris Saint-Germain have dropped to third despite their victory over Barcelona, granted a 13.96% likelihood of retaining their crown. Given Arsenal’s status as league runners-up for the past three seasons, alongside reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in over 15 years, this level of faith in Arteta’s squad is noteworthy indeed.