After five matches, Arsenal currently sits fifth in the Premier League, with three wins and two draws. This start might seem underwhelming to some, given their goal to keep up with Manchester City.
However, Mikel Arteta’s team has successfully tackled three tough away matches, securing victories against Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, and narrowly missing a third win at the Etihad with a 2-2 draw.
In the aftermath of that draw, it was announced that Pep Guardiola’s star midfielder, Rodri, has suffered an ACL injury. This development is significant in the title race, as replacing a player of Rodri’s caliber is challenging for City, similar to the situation with Martin Odegaard at Arsenal.
Despite these changes, Carragher does not view Arsenal as title favorites. On the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast, he reassessed Arsenal’s chances following the news about Rodri. He noted, “I would say [after the Rodri injury] 50/50 now.” However, Roy Keane disagreed, stating, “A little bit, but I’m still sticking with City. De Bruyne didn’t play last year, they have options to come back, Stones is sitting on the bench but it’s a huge loss.”
Given their season start and the players returning, some Arsenal fans may feel their chances are being underestimated.
In a separate but notable event, Arsenal’s 5-1 win against Bolton Wanderers in the EFL Cup showcased Ethan Nwaneri’s readiness to step in for Odegaard. Arteta was also impressed with Raheem Sterling, a four-time Premier League champion, who can bolster Arsenal this season.
Before Sterling’s arrival, Bukayo Saka lacked a strong alternative, but now he has a motivated teammate eager to prove his worth. Thus, while Carragher suggests a 50/50 chance for Arsenal, there may be growing confidence among their supporters.
