Rio Ferdinand has made a bold prediction for the upcoming Premier League season, backing Arsenal to end Manchester City’s dominance and claim the title.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have been unstoppable, winning the last four Premier League titles, but Ferdinand believes this could be Arsenal’s year.
Arsenal’s Strong Challenge
Arsenal has come close to toppling City in the past two seasons, finishing second each time.
Under Mikel Arteta’s management, the Gunners have steadily improved, and Ferdinand thinks they now have what it takes to go all the way.
A key reason for Ferdinand’s confidence in Arsenal is their new signing, Riccardo Calafiori, who has joined from Bologna.
Calafiori’s Impact
Ferdinand is particularly impressed with Calafiori, a defender who played under Thiago Motta at Bologna. He believes Calafiori will strengthen Arsenal’s defense, which has been a slight weakness in recent seasons.
Ferdinand thinks that with Calafiori providing balance and stability on the left side, Arsenal can finally overcome the final hurdle and win the league.
In an interview with TNT Sports, Ferdinand said, “I think it’s hard to go against City because of how successful they’ve been over the last four seasons.
But I just think Arsenal, with Calafiori coming in, will have the edge this season. He’s a fantastic player, and he fits the style of football that Arteta wants to play.”
Top Four Predictions
Ferdinand has also shared his predictions for the top four, backing his former club Manchester United to return to the Champions League places.
He sees Arsenal finishing top, followed by Manchester City in second, Liverpool in third, and Manchester United in fourth.
The new Premier League season kicks off with Manchester United hosting Fulham on Friday night.
Arsenal will begin their title challenge at home against Wolves on Saturday, while Manchester City will travel to Chelsea on Sunday. Liverpool will also be in action on Saturday, facing newly-promoted Ipswich Town.
Ferdinand’s predictions have added excitement to the upcoming season, as fans eagerly await to see if Arsenal can indeed break City’s stranglehold on the Premier League and lift the trophy.
