Former Manchester United defender Mikaël Silvestre has backed Arsenal to lift the Premier League trophy this season, arguing that Mikel Arteta’s side now have the depth, composure, and experience to go all the way.
In an interview reported by Football365, Silvestre, who represented both Manchester United and Arsenal during his playing career, said he believes the Gunners are finally ready to end their two-decade title drought.
“Arsenal will finish first,” Silvestre said confidently. “Second, Manchester United. Third is Manchester City, and fourth will be Liverpool.”
Silvestre, who played under Sir Alex Ferguson during United’s dominant era, praised Arsenal’s steady evolution under Arteta. He noted that the club’s strong defensive unit, midfield balance, and leadership from key figures such as Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice have transformed them into credible title contenders.
“The fact that Arsenal were challenging last season was a surprise to everyone and even to themselves,” he added. “Now that they’ve done that with consistency, they clearly are title challengers this season.”
His prediction aligns with current league standings, as Arsenal continue to sit atop the Premier League table after a string of decisive performances, including wins over Crystal Palace and Aston Villa. Analysts have pointed out that Arteta’s squad, strengthened by summer acquisitions and improved squad rotation, appears more resilient than in previous seasons.
Meanwhile, Silvestre’s forecast places Manchester United ahead of Manchester City — a bold call, given Pep Guardiola’s side’s recent dominance. “It’s about who can keep consistency and adapt when form dips,” he noted, implying that United’s younger core could spring surprises later in the season.
As pundits weigh in on the evolving title race, Arsenal fans have embraced Silvestre’s confidence as further validation of the club’s progress since Arteta took over in 2019.
If the Gunners maintain their form through the winter fixtures, they could be on course for their first Premier League triumph since the ‘Invincibles’ season of 2003–04.
