EPL: David James predicts Arsenal ‘won’t win the title’ despite strong start

Former England goalkeeper David James has poured cold water on Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, insisting Mikel Arteta’s side will fall short despite their impressive start to the season.

The Gunners currently sit four points clear of second-placed Bournemouth after a 1–0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday — a result that capitalised on defeats for Liverpool and Manchester City.

However, James believes Arsenal’s early-season form will not be enough to sustain a title-winning campaign.

Speaking to Metro, the former Liverpool and Manchester City keeper said:

“I don’t think Arsenal will win the title, even if they’ve started well. I think the likes of Man City, Chelsea, and Liverpool will go into the final weeks of the season and possibly decide the title race.”

James, who predicted before the season that Arsenal would finish fourth, acknowledged that Arteta’s men have shown great consistency but questioned their ability to balance Champions League football and a Premier League title charge.

“It will be interesting to see how Arteta handles qualification for the Champions League while maintaining that top position in the Premier League. I don’t think they’ll be able to do it,” he added.

Arsenal have finished runners-up for three consecutive seasons and entered the 2025 campaign as one of the favourites to finally lift the Premier League trophy.

The Gunners’ next fixture is away at Burnley’s Turf Moor, while Liverpool face Aston Villa at Anfield as the title race heats up.