Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is steering clear of writing off Manchester United’s chances in the Premier League title race, despite their rocky start to the 2024-25 season. With United 15 points adrift of leaders Liverpool, and currently sitting in mid-table, Arteta remains resolute in his belief that it’s still too early to dismiss any team from the title picture.
In a press conference ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Ruben Amorim’s rejuvenated United side on Wednesday, Arteta was asked if he believed Manchester United could still contend for the league crown, given their difficult opening stretch under Erik ten Hag’s successor, Amorim.
“It’s still very early in the season,” Arteta said. “The Premier League is extremely competitive, and it only takes a run of five or six wins to get back into contention. We see teams week in and week out struggling to maintain consistency, and anything can happen in this league.”
Currently sitting second in the Premier League, Arsenal are in excellent form, six points clear of United, but Arteta’s comments reflect a cautious approach in assessing the competition. The Spaniard pointed out that Manchester United's fortunes could change rapidly with a streak of positive results.
Arsenal’s boss also spoke about the defending champions, Manchester City, who are struggling to find their usual rhythm. Despite falling 11 points behind Liverpool, City cannot be discounted, according to Arteta.
“Manchester City, with the quality they have, should never be ruled out,” Arteta continued. “If any team has the capacity to bounce back and go on a winning streak, it’s them. Pep Guardiola’s team knows what it takes to win the league, and they can turn things around quickly.”
Arsenal, in contrast, have been enjoying solid form at home, with Arteta’s side positioned as one of the Premier League’s most consistent teams this season. They will face a Manchester United team that has shown signs of revival under Amorim, who has already left his mark just weeks after replacing the sacked Ten Hag.
“You can already see the influence of Ruben [Amorim] on United’s style of play,” Arteta said, praising the former Sporting Lisbon manager. “He’s brought energy and new ideas to the squad, and that’s always a positive. But for us, the focus remains on what we need to do.”
Aside from their Premier League clash, Arsenal also have a highly anticipated FA Cup third-round fixture against United early next month, which promises to be another thrilling encounter between the two clubs. Despite the challenge, Arteta remains determined to keep his focus on his team’s objectives.
“We’ve been drawn against United in the FA Cup, and it’s going to be a big match, as it always is,” Arteta said with a sense of anticipation. “It’s a little bit like what we’ve come to expect in recent seasons, always facing tough opponents early on. But we want to continue our strong tradition at Arsenal. To win major trophies, you have to beat the best teams. It’s a challenge we’re excited about.”
