Paul Merson: ‘This is why Arsenal could lose Premier League title race’ despite Bournemouth win

In a surprising twist, former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has warned that Arsenal risk squandering their Premier League lead despite a convincing victory over Bournemouth. Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson highlighted underlying vulnerabilities that could derail Mikel Arteta's title charge, even as the Gunners maintain a slender advantage at the top.[1][2]

Merson praised Arsenal's recent form, noting their dominant displays against strong opponents like Aston Villa, where they secured a 4-1 win with a stunning second-half blitz. "It was an outstanding 30 minutes... they suffocated Aston Villa," he said, emphasizing how Arsenal's home fixtures against big teams position them favorably. Yet, he cautioned that complacency or failure to address key weaknesses could hand the title to Manchester City.[1][3]

Arsenal currently lead City by two points, but Merson pointed to their squad depth as a double-edged sword. While Arteta has transformed the team into title contenders—capable of winning via set-pieces, open play, and sheer intensity—recent "small bumps" have narrowed the gap. He predicted Arsenal would "win the league quite easily" if they sustain momentum, but stressed the psychological edge from results like the Villa thrashing might not suffice against Pep Guardiola's side.[2][3]

Merson singled out Arsenal's away form and fixture congestion as potential pitfalls. Despite playing most rivals at home, tough road trips loom large. "With the away fixtures they have already played and this result, I don’t know who will stop them," he added, before flipping to doubt: over-reliance on home advantage could expose frailties if injuries strike or City hit a purple patch.[1]

Arteta's side, eyeing their first title since 2004, must heed Merson's words. Goal difference, now bolstered, remains crucial in a tight race. Fans and pundits agree: Arsenal's evolution under Arteta is remarkable, but one slip—perhaps in a grueling run-in—could see City pounce. Merson's bold take underscores the razor-thin margins separating glory from heartbreak.[3][5]

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