Jamie Carragher fires Arsenal warning and names 'decisive factor' in Premier League title race

Jamie Carragher Backs Arsenal in Premier League Title Race Over Manchester City

Jamie Carragher has named Arsenal as his favorites to win the Premier League title ahead of Manchester City, but warns it won't be easy due to their injury woes and inconsistent form.[1]

Arsenal currently lead the standings at the halfway point of the season after a convincing 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on December 30. Manchester City trail by four points in second place following a frustrating 0-0 draw at Sunderland on New Year's Day, despite dominating possession (67%) and registering 14 shots.[1]

Carragher acknowledges Arsenal's strong position but highlights challenges: "But it's not going to be straightforward, as their recent form shows. There is an ongoing problem of a worrying injury record. For some reason, they always seem to be more impacted than their main title rival and it's started to happen again."[1]

The Gunners have finished second in the last three seasons, while City have claimed two of the past three titles. Carragher draws parallels to Manchester United's past successes, noting their "know-how" to clinch titles late in the campaign. He predicts: "If City are still within touching distance of Arsenal by late March, Guardiola will be confident and Arsenal – especially their fans – will be nervous. That could yet be a decisive factor."[1]

Carragher emphasizes City's pedigree under Pep Guardiola, suggesting they could capitalize if they stay close through the spring. Arsenal's fans, he implies, may feel the pressure in a tight race. Upcoming fixtures for City include tough tests against Villa (twice), Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest, adding to the intrigue.[1][2]

In summary, while Arsenal hold the edge now, Carragher sees March as pivotal, with City's experience potentially proving decisive if they remain in contention.[1]