Pundit picks one team that can stop Arsenal from retaining Premier League crown
Former England international anny Murphy believes Arsenal have the strongest foundations for another Premier League title, with Manchester City their only realistic challenger.
Former England midfielder Danny Murphy has backed Arsenal to successfully defend their Premier League crown, arguing that Manchester City are the only side currently capable of seriously challenging Mikel Arteta’s team.
Arsenal enter the new campaign with considerable momentum after ending their long wait for the Premier League title last season and following that achievement with a convincing 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield.
The result has strengthened the perception that Arteta’s side are beginning the campaign from a position of confidence, although the season itself will provide a far greater test of their consistency.
Arsenal have also strengthened their squad during the summer, bringing in Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis, while a £51 million move for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa has been agreed as the club seeks greater depth.
The additions have come without the loss of any of Arsenal’s established leading players, giving Arteta the advantage of continuity alongside improved squad options.
Recent Premier League previews have similarly placed Arsenal among the leading contenders, with their title defence beginning against newly promoted Coventry City.
Murphy believes that continuity could prove particularly important because Arteta does not have to spend another pre-season introducing an entirely new tactical system to his players.
Manchester City, meanwhile, face a different challenge after entering a new era under Enzo Maresca following Pep Guardiola’s departure. Despite that transition, their attacking quality and depth mean Murphy still regards them as Arsenal’s nearest rivals.
City will also have plenty of motivation after being comfortably beaten in Cardiff, but Arsenal’s early-season advantage could grow if they maintain the consistency that finally delivered the title last season.
