Michael Owen Admits Man City Will Challenge for Premier League Title, Backs Arsenal

Former England striker Michael Owen has admitted that Manchester City will be serious contenders for the Premier League title this season, despite maintaining that Arsenal remain the team to beat.

Owen’s assessment marks a shift from his pre-season prediction that City could struggle to compete for the title following concerns over the possible impact of Pep Guardiola’s situation and the availability of key players.

As it stands, Manchester City sit at the top of the Premier League table with 18 points, three points ahead of Arsenal.

City have won all six of their opening fixtures, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have suffered one defeat so far.

Owen said he had been impressed by City’s performances, acknowledging that the reigning title contenders appeared capable of remaining in the race despite his earlier doubts.

“I thought that City might struggle to win the league and I still think Arsenal are the team to beat – don’t get me wrong – but I’ve been really impressed with the way City, and they look like they’ll be right in the mix,” Owen told the UK Metro.

Before the campaign began, Owen had predicted that concerns surrounding Guardiola and key players, including Rodri, Bernardo Silva and John Stones, could hamper City’s title ambitions.

However, City’s reported perfect start has prompted the former Liverpool and Manchester United striker to acknowledge their strength as the season progresses.

Arsenal, meanwhile, remain Owen’s preferred choice for the title, although City’s early results suggest that the Gunners could face stiff competition in the race for the Premier League crown.

With both sides looking to maintain their strong starts, the battle between City and Arsenal is shaping up as one of the major talking points of the Premier League season.