Arsenal legend Paul Merson has confessed to feeling "half-scared" that his bold Premier League title prediction for the Gunners is unraveling after they dropped more points in a dramatic draw at Wolves. The former star had defiantly backed Arsenal to win the league back in December, but recent setbacks have shaken his confidence.
Merson's Confidence Wavers as Arsenal Stumble
In mid-December, Merson declared the title race "as good as done" for Arsenal, citing their comfortable lead and Manchester City's struggles to find form. He argued that City were "not the Man City of old," giving the north Londoners a clear advantage. However, Arsenal have since drawn their last two Premier League matches, including a collapse from 2-0 up against Wolves, allowing the gap at the top to shrink significantly.
Title Hangs in the Balance
The state of play now means Manchester City have their title hopes firmly in their own hands. If they win every remaining game, including a crucial clash against Arsenal at the Etihad, they would secure a fifth title in six years. Merson expressed his growing unease on Sky Sports, referencing comments by former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira, who suggested it was "now or never" for the team to clinch silverware.
Merson said, "I wouldn't want to be in their shoes if they don't win the league this year because if they don't, I remember Patrick Vieira saying before the Manchester United game that it's now or never. I'm starting to think that. I was very bullish about Arsenal winning the league but that's half-scared me tonight."
Pressure Mounts on Arteta and Arsenal
The draw at Molineux, where Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead, has intensified scrutiny over their ability to finish strong. This follows a similar slip-up against Brentford, fueling narratives that the Gunners lack the mental fortitude to secure trophies. Manager Mikel Arteta faces ongoing questions about a trophyless period stretching back to 2020.
Arteta responded to the latest setback, stating, "Too many things went wrong one after the other. It's best not to judge it. We are all too emotional about it and it's not the moment to do it. It's a moment when you don't perform, and you are at this level, and expectations are where they are. You have to take the hit, because as well, we deserve it."
Merson Fears 'Bottle Jobs' Label
Merson admitted that Arsenal now face intense criticism, with terms like "bottle jobs" and "melting" likely to dominate discussions. He noted, "It's going come on full blast now, being bottle jobs, melting. It's full-on now - drawing away at Brentford and then being two goals up against the worst team in the league."
As Arsenal prepare for a pivotal north London derby this weekend, the pressure is mounting. With Manchester City gaining momentum, Merson's once-confident prediction hangs by a thread, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Premier League title race.
