Rio Ferdinand has backed Manchester City to clinch their fourth consecutive Premier League title, but has admitted that both Arsenal and his former team, Manchester United, will present strong competition for the top spot in the upcoming season.
Since Pep Guardiola's tenure began, Manchester City has been dominant in the English league, securing three consecutive titles. However, Arsenal pushed them until the final stages of the previous season.
Gunners have made impressive additions to their squad this summer, including Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber, with the imminent arrival of David Raya. Their summer spending, exceeding £200 million, suggests they are now contenders for the Premier League crown.
Rio Ferdinand is optimistic about their performance under Mikel Arteta this season. Similarly, Manchester United have made significant signings in Mason Mount, Andre Onana, and Rasmus Hojlund during the summer. Ferdinand believes that under Erik ten Hag's guidance, his former club is progressing positively, following their third-place finish in the previous season and their victory in the League Cup.
In Rio Ferdinand's view, the Premier League title race this season will involve two strong challengers alongside Manchester City – Arsenal and Manchester United. He believes that these two teams have the potential to narrow the gap and put pressure on City's dominance.
“I still think there’s a difference between Manchester United and Manchester City: on the pitch and off the pitch. But I think Manchester United are going in the right direction. I think you can see how they have approached the transfer window, it’s been very decisive and forthright," the pundit said, via now.arsenal.
“They have executed on three very good players who are going to improve the squad no doubt, potentially another one coming in after that, we’ll have to wait and see. And I think Arsenal have done the same. They have recruited superbly well in this window. Three very good players who are not only going to improve the squad but the starting XI."
“They’ll be the closest this season but as for City, I don’t think anyone is going to pip them to the title," he added.
Join us on Telegram!/ Follow us on Twitter!