Arsenal dismissed as contenders in Mourinho’s bold prediction
Jose Mourinho dismissed Arsenal’s title hopes, citing Manchester City as the clear favorites to retain their crown. The Gunners took the league lead after a 2-0 victory over Brighton, with Liverpool and Aston Villa behind by a single point.
Meanwhile, City stumbled, losing a two-goal lead at Crystal Palace and falling five points behind.
In reaction to Arsenal’s current position, Mourinho declared them out of contention on The Obi One Podcast.
When asked about the probable three-horse race, the experienced manager wore a doubtful grumble and curtly responded, “Na.”
Mikel burst out laughing at Mourinho’s bluntness, saying: ‘The rivalry is still there!’
Mourinho continued: ‘But it is not the rivalry… it isn’t the right moment [for them].’
When Mikel suggested that Arsenal team “always capitulate,” Mourinho responded, “Honestly, rivalry aside because I can do it, I would like them to win, I would like a third [team in the title race].”
‘Of course Chelsea is not going to win it, that’s out of the question, so I don’t think about Chelsea.
‘Of course Manchester United is not going to win it, I don’t speak about Man United too, so it’s going to be these three and out of these three I would be happy for Arsenal to do it.
‘I would be really happy to [see them] break a little bit that thing, but I think it’s 51-49 [between City and Liverpool].
‘And I say 51-49 because when the accumulation of matches are coming, Man City has two teams
Mourinho pointed out City’s unmatched lineup depth, which allows them to pitch two world-class XIs. He saw this depth as crucial in clinching the title, replicating City’s return from a five-point deficit last season to win a fourth straight crown.
When asked to predict the Premier League, the Portuguese tactician gave Manchester City 51% and Liverpool 49%.
Due to Club World Cup commitments, City’s next league match is on December 27, giving Arsenal and Liverpool an opportunity to broaden their lead when they meet at Anfield next weekend.
Mourinho’s firm mindset displays his faith in City’s ability and throws doubt on Arsenal’s capacity to maintain their current position at the top of the league.
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