LONDON, England- Arsenal FC’s Premier League title hopes remain firmly alive despite their 2-1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, a result that has tightened, but not decided, the race.
City’s win at the Etihad cut the gap at the top to just three points, with Pep Guardiola’s side also holding a game in hand.
But crucially, Arsenal are still top of the table, meaning the title race remains in their hands heading into the final weeks of the season.
A race defined by fine margins
With five matches left, Arsenal sit on 70 points, while City are close behind on 67, albeit with an extra fixture to play.
That leaves what analysts describe as a “straight shootout” between the two sides, far from a settled contest.
Even after the defeat, Arsenal showed they can compete toe-to-toe with City, creating chances and hitting the woodwork during the match.
Fixtures still favour Arsenal
While City have momentum, their run-in is not straightforward.
Upcoming fixtures include tricky away trips, while Arsenal’s remaining schedule is seen as relatively manageable on paper.
This means the title could still swing depending on who handles pressure better in the final stretch.
Data still backs Arsenal
Despite recent setbacks, statistical models continue to favour Arsenal.
Before the latest round of fixtures, Opta’s projections gave them over 80% probability of winning the title, underlining how strong their overall season has been.
Even though that margin has narrowed, they remain favourites.
Pressure now shifts to City
City’s victory has reignited the race, but it also increases expectation.
Guardiola’s side must now maintain a near-perfect run, knowing any slip could hand the advantage straight back to Arsenal.
Historically, title races between the two sides have gone down to the final day, highlighting just how unpredictable the closing weeks can be.
For Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal squad, the equation is simple: respond strongly and keep winning.
Sunday’s defeat may have removed their cushion, but not their control.
With the title still in their hands, the race is far from over.
Remaining fixtures for Arsenal
Arsenal still has several crucial matches left that could decide their season:
- Newcastle United (H)
- Burnley (A)
- Fulham (H)
- West Ham United (A)
- Brentford (H)
- Burnley (H)
These fixtures come after a decisive run-in that also included the key clash with Manchester City, which Arsenal lost 2-1.
