Slot Tips Arsenal to Edge Man City in Premier League Title Race

Liverpool manager Arne Slot believes Arsenal will hold off Manchester City’s late charge to secure the Premier League title this season.

City closed the gap to two points with a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, but Arsenal can restore a five-point cushion if they defeat Burnley at the Emirates on Monday.

Mikel Arteta’s side then face Crystal Palace away on the final day, while City host Aston Villa.

Speaking at his press conference on Thursday, Slot was asked about Liverpool’s playing style but used the opportunity to highlight Arsenal’s defensive resilience as a decisive factor in the title race.

‘The team that is going to win the league, at least I assume, I think Arsenal is going to win the league, is a team that has large spells in a game where they have to defend in a low block and they do that really well,’ he said.

Slot explained that defending deep is sometimes unavoidable against possession-heavy teams such as Chelsea, and praised Arsenal’s ability to adapt.

‘You defend with 11 players, that’s the new reality in football. Ideally you do it high up the pitch, but if that’s not possible because the other team is having a good spell then you have to try to keep a clean sheet,’ he added.

The Dutchman contrasted Arsenal’s efficiency with Liverpool’s struggles in similar situations, admitting his side have conceded goals during spells of pressure and failed to convert chances when dominant.

‘We’ve been the most in the final third of every team in the Premier League but that doesn’t lead to enough chances, and we are aware of why that is,’ Slot said.