Merson: Arsenal Still Hold Title Race Advantage Despite Man City Win

Paul Merson believes Arsenal remain in control of the Premier League title race despite Manchester City moving top with a 1-0 win over Burnley.

Erling Haaland’s early strike at Turf Moor lifted City above Arsenal on goals scored, ending the Gunners’ 200-day stay at the summit.

City dominated with 28 attempts but failed to add to Haaland’s opener, leaving Merson to argue that Pep Guardiola’s side missed an opportunity to take firm control.

Writing in his Sky Sports column, Merson said the race could come down to goal difference, and City’s inability to score more against Burnley has handed the advantage back to Arsenal.

Arsenal now have the chance to reclaim top spot when they host Newcastle on Saturday, followed by a trip to Fulham before City return to league action against Everton.

Merson stressed that Arsenal must win both games to put pressure back on City, who face a run-in that includes Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brentford and Aston Villa.

Reflecting on Arsenal’s recent defeat at the Etihad, Merson highlighted missed chances and defensive lapses, pointing to Gabriel Martinelli’s failure to track Nico O’Reilly for City’s decisive goal.

He warned that small errors could prove decisive in a title race likely to be settled by fine margins.