Image source: football.london
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has dismissed suggestions that Arsenal are already Premier League champions ahead of Thursday’s crucial title clash at the Emirates Stadium, insisting the Hungary international believes his defending champions remain the team to beat despite Arsenal’s current six-point lead at the summit.
Szoboszlai Snaps Back at Arsenal Champions Claim Before Thursday Showdown
The 25-year-old midfielder, who lifted the Premier League trophy last season with Liverpool, responded firmly when asked by Sky Sports reporter Patrick Davison whether Liverpool are playing the champions on Thursday. Szoboszlai declared that Arsenal face the real champions, stating his belief that Liverpool remain the standard-bearers in English football despite their current position in the table.
Szoboszlai emphasised the lengthy nature of the Premier League campaign, telling Sky Sports that titles are not won by January. The Hungarian international acknowledged Arsenal as one of the favourites this season while describing them as an unbelievable team with really good players, but maintained his conviction that Liverpool enter Thursday’s encounter as the reigning champions defending their crown.
The Liverpool star also highlighted the continued threat posed by other title contenders, specifically mentioning Manchester City and Aston Villa as teams performing very well this season. Szoboszlai’s comments come as Arsenal hold a six-point advantage over Manchester City at the Premier League summit, though that gap could be reduced to three points if City defeat Brighton at the Etihad Stadium before Thursday’s showdown.
Arsenal’s current league position follows Manchester City dropping four points last week through draws with Sunderland and Chelsea, with Pep Guardiola’s side facing pressure to respond. Szoboszlai previously netted a stunning free-kick winner when Liverpool defeated Arsenal at Anfield back in August, giving the midfielder additional confidence heading into Thursday’s reverse fixture at the Emirates Stadium.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri echoed Szoboszlai’s sentiment about the title race remaining wide open, with the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner insisting there is still a long way to go in the campaign. The Spanish international acknowledged City’s frustration after dropping points against Chelsea but stressed the need to focus on upcoming fixtures, starting with Brighton at home before attention turns to the title race dynamics.
