Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue has warned his old club to be wary of Chelsea in the Premier League title race, while giving the Gunners a 75% chance of retaining their crown.
Arsenal made a strong start to their title defence with four straight league wins, but were beaten 3-0 by Brighton in their most recent match. That result allowed Manchester City to move top of the table with five wins from five games.
However, City were found guilty on numerous charges for breaking financial rules during the international break, throwing the club into chaos as they attempt to appeal the verdict.
Eboue backs Arteta's side
Despite City's troubles, they still look like Arsenal's main challengers. But Eboue, speaking to LiveFootballTickets, believes Chelsea are also a threat.
"Chelsea are a team Arsenal need to be careful of because they have a lot of very good players," he said. "The Premier League is going to be very tough, but I believe in what Arteta is doing and I believe in Arsenal."
The Ivorian added: "Arsenal are my team. This season is going to be very tough because there are so many good teams and good players. But if Arsenal play the way they have been playing, I believe they can win the league. I would give them maybe a 75 per cent chance."
Walcott's concerns
Eboue also noted that teams are now scared of facing Arsenal, saying: "Before, people would say Arsenal play good football but they don't win. Now teams are going to be scared when they play against Arsenal."
Another former Arsenal player, Theo Walcott, has raised concerns about the team's away form. Speaking to talkSPORT, Walcott said: "They remain a little vulnerable away from home. I like [Christos] Tzolis, but from what I've seen away from home, I haven't been as impressed."
He added: "I think they are exceptional and I do feel they've got everything to retain it. But it's not going to be easy, because they'll want to win the Champions League."
