Real Madrid and France international striker Kylian Mbappe has backed Arsenal to clinch the Premier League title this season following their runner-up finishes to Liverpool and Manchester City over the past three campaigns. The Gunners have entered this season with a burning ambition to go one step further and secure Premier League glory.
Mikel Arteta has won widespread praise for transforming Arsenal back into genuine title contenders for the first time since Arsene Wenger's golden period. Nevertheless, there remains an intense hunger to finally start collecting major trophies.
In their quest to overcome their competitors this term, Arsenal have opened their wallet and strengthened their squad considerably. Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze are amongst the players who have joined this summer.
Despite these additions, Arsenal are not regarded as favourites to claim the title as Liverpool have also bolstered their team remarkably. Alexander Isak's signing was the crowning moment of their summer transfer activity having already brought in the likes of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Milos Kerkez to their squad.
Whilst the Gunners may believe they are the favourites behind closed doors, they shall welcome the chance to be considered outsiders this season. It appears that Mbappe has confidence in Arsenal to surprise their rivals this season.
When questioned by BILD about his predictions for the Premier League this campaign, the Frenchman responded: "Of course, Liverpool has to be mentioned first and foremost, as they're determined to win one title after another. But I also have high hopes for Arsenal, because the core of the team has known each other for a long time, and that's a crucial factor in football.
"And Manchester City is always at the forefront anyway, with Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland." When pushed for an answer for who will win the Premier League, Mbappe replied: "That's tough.
"Maybe Arsenal, maybe it will be their year. It would certainly be easier to say City or Liverpool."
Of course, the Premier League isn't the only competition on Arsenal's radar, or Liverpool and City's for that matter, this season.
The Champions League returns later this month, with Arsenal set to begin their campaign against Athletic Club on September 16, Liverpool hosting Atletico Madrid on September 17 before City welcome Napoli a day later on September 18. When quizzed about his prediction for the Champions League winners, Mbappe's answer was more predictable.
"I always say Real Madrid," he stated. "But there are many good teams in Europe, a lot.
"We saw that last year was great with the new Champions League format. This year will be even better.
"It will be interesting to see who prevails in the end." Last season, it was Arsenal who dashed Real Madrid's Champions League dreams by beating them 5-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals.