Arsenal - John Mikel Obi
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Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has claimed Arsenal now boast the strongest squad in the Premier League but believes the title race will ultimately come down to Liverpool and Chelsea.
Mikel Arteta’s side are aiming to end their reputation as perennial runners-up after finishing second in each of the past three league campaigns. Determined to bridge the gap, the Gunners spent over £250 million this summer to add depth and quality across the pitch.
Viktor Gyökeres headlined the arrivals, joining from Sporting Lisbon to provide Arsenal with a traditional goalscorer. The club also strengthened midfield with Martin Zubimendi as a replacement for Thomas Partey, while Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze were added to bolster attacking options out wide.
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Reflecting on Arsenal’s recruitment, Mikel said onThe Obi One Podcast: “The owners and the hierarchy have massively backed Mikel Arteta again. They have the strongest squad in the Premier League, them and Liverpool.
“In terms of depth, Arsenal have two players in every position. Arteta knows there are no excuses. He has to win the Premier League or Champions League. The FA Cup or League Cup won’t cut it. This season feels like their time.”
However, despite his admiration for Arsenal’s depth, the Nigerian legend tipped his former club Chelsea and leaders Liverpool as the real contenders for the title.
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Liverpool have started the season perfectly with three wins from three and are set to integrate deadline-day signing Alexander Isak. Chelsea, meanwhile, remain unbeaten under Enzo Maresca and are buoyed by their recent Club World Cup triumph.
“I think it’s between Liverpool and Chelsea, and we have a good chance of winning it,” Mikel continued. “If you ask me which team can beat Liverpool, I’ll say Chelsea. The way Enzo Maresca has got us playing out from the back, with bravery and confidence, makes us dangerous. We are the team that can really hurt Liverpool. By the end of the season, it will be between us and them.”
Arsenal may have the depth, but in Mikel’s eyes, it will be Liverpool and Chelsea who ultimately fight it out for the Premier League crown.
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