Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has weighed in on the Premier League title race following Manchester City’s emphatic 3-0 demolition of Liverpool, and his comments about Arsenal have stirred plenty of debate among fans.
Speaking after City’s dominant display, Owen admitted that while Arsenal are top contenders this season, he still ranks them below both Manchester City and Liverpool when all three clubs are performing at their peak.
Michael Owen said:
“If Arsenal, Man City and Liverpool all play at their very, very best, I think Arsenal are still probably the third-best team. When everyone is at their absolute best, Liverpool can blow anyone off the pitch and so can Man City.”
Owen’s assessment reflects the razor-thin margins at the top of the table, with Arsenal’s consistency contrasting the explosive highs and lows of their rivals. He believes Arsenal’s success lies not in dazzling football but in their discipline and ability to avoid costly errors.
“With Arsenal it’s about not making many mistakes, I can see them grinding away, maybe having a few draws. Their style of play might just make them plug on all the way and make them hard to beat.”
The former England forward also highlighted the difference in mentality and resilience between the title challengers.
While Liverpool and City tend to dominate games when in form, Owen pointed out that Arsenal have developed the knack for securing results even when they’re not at their best, a trait often seen in champions.
“When Liverpool or Man City win, they play really well and can win by four or five goals. But if Liverpool play poorly they get beat. With Arsenal you get the sense they can still play badly and grind out a win or a draw. That might just play in their favour this season but there’s a long, long way to go.”
Owen’s remarks come at a crucial moment in the title race. City’s statement victory has reignited their momentum, Liverpool’s vulnerabilities have been exposed, and Arsenal’s grit continues to keep them in contention.
Whether Mikel Arteta’s men can maintain that relentless consistency, and prove Owen wrong, remains to be seen as the season unfolds.
